DOWNEND Flyers’ annual football tournament proved to be another outstanding success, bringing together more than 1,100 players for a weekend of exciting football, community spirit and celebration.
The tournament on Pomphrey Hill North playing fields at the end of June welcomed an incredible 144 teams, with 1,152 players taking part in more than 700 matches.
Across the weekend, more than 7,000 minutes of football were played, making it one of the club’s biggest and most successful tournaments to date.
The event reached a fitting conclusion, as the Downend Flyers women’s team were crowned tournament champions, providing the perfect finale to an unforgettable weekend.
As the club’s main annual fundraiser, the money generated by the tournament will help support football opportunities for girls and women across the community.
However, organisers say the greatest achievement was seeing so many young players enjoying the game, developing their skills and making lasting memories in a positive and inclusive environment.
Downend Flyers sincerely thank everyone who made the event possible, including the dedicated players, coaches, referees, volunteers, parents and supporters who worked tirelessly throughout the weekend.
The club also paid tribute to its generous tournament sponsors, whose backing helped ensure the event was another resounding success.
There were plenty of reasons to celebrate on the pitch, with several Downend Flyers teams enjoying excellent performances:
• Under-10 Falcons – Cup Runners-up
• Under-11 Condors – Cup Winners
• Under-12 Owls – Plate Winners
• Under-13 Rooks – Plate Runners-up
• Under-15 Hawks – Plate Winners
• Women’s Team – Cup Winners
Club chairperson Fay Poole said: “What better way to finish our tournament weekend than with our women’s team going all the way to be crowned tournament champions?
“We are incredibly proud of every player who took part, and grateful to our amazing coaches, volunteers, sponsors and everyone who helped make the weekend such a success.
“While the tournament is our biggest fundraiser of the year and raised an excellent amount for the club, what mattered most was seeing so many girls out on the pitch enjoying football. That’s what Downend Flyers is all about.”
With another successful tournament complete, the club is already looking forward to welcoming teams back next year for what promises to be another fantastic celebration of grassroots football.
Duncan Gardner