Despite persistent rain throughout the day, spirits remained high as 160 Year 3 and 4 pupils from 13 schools came together for the Y3/4 Open Football Development Competition at Raynes Park Vale FC on Wednesday 21st October.
The schools taking part were:
Aragon Primary School
Bishop Gilpin CofE Primary School
Garfield Primary School
Hatfeild Primary School
Hillcross Primary School
Hollymount Primary School
Holy Trinity CofE Primary School
Links Primary School
Morden Primary School
Pelham Primary School
Poplar Primary School
Singlegate Primary School
St Mary’s Catholic Primary School
The festival-style event provided young participants with the opportunity to enjoy football in a fun and inclusive environment, playing a series of mini matches against pupils from across the borough. The focus of the competition was on participation, skill development and enjoyment, allowing every player to gain match experience while representing their school.
The challenging weather conditions did little to dampen enthusiasm, with pupils demonstrating outstanding resilience, determination and teamwork throughout the event. Players supported one another, showed positive attitudes and embraced every opportunity to learn and improve.
A huge thank you goes to the 11 Active Leaders from Rutlish School, who helped set up the event, referee matches and support the running of the competition. Thank you to all schools, staff, pupils and volunteers who attended and contributed to another football event. It was inspiring to see so many young people enjoying the opportunity to play, compete and develop their football skills, regardless of the weather.
Thanks also to John Scales for supporting us with the Raynes Park Vale facility as well groundskeeper Danny for his superb help on the day with facilitating shelter for the children throughout the morning.
We wish all schools, pupils and staff a restful half term as we look forward to the Girls and Open Football Championships Yr 5/6 in Autumn Term 2.