Tournament sets scene for further expansion
The first 7 Elite Academy International Tournament in the UK has been hailed as a curtain-raiser for more events, after teams from across the North-West competed at Litherland Sports Park in Liverpool.
The grassroots football competition, which took place on Sunday, featured Under-11 teams from throughout Liverpool and as far afield as Skelmersdale.
7 Elite Academy runs teams for thousands of players in the United States, United Kingdom and Africa, alongside a successful annual tournament in Utah.
Academy bosses want to replicate the success of that competition here in the UK, with similar events to follow on a regular basis across all age groups in Liverpool.
Alan Moogan, Head of UK Coaching at 7 Elite Academy, said: “This is our first tournament here in the UK, but it has been a great success and we’ll be looking to do a lot more of these.
“Hopefully we can hold other tournaments in the summer and throughout the rest of the year as well. It’s a great set-up and most importantly, the kids are having a great time.
“The quality of football has been great from all teams. We want to provide a platform for as much game time as possible. It keeps kids off the streets and gets them playing football, which they all love and enjoy.
“Today has also been superb off the pitch. The attitude of the kids has been great and that’s something we encourage throughout all our tournaments and programs.”
Games were played in a group stage format with penalty shootouts, before the top teams met each other in Champions League and Europa League style finals.
Finn Harps won the Europa League final, while MHS Milan were successful in the Champions League final.
Gerrad James, Coach of MHS Milan Under-11s said: “It’s been a great day for all the lads and they ran their socks off. I would like to thank 7 Elite Academy for setting this tournament up.”
Casper Kayll, Coach of Skelmersdale Youth FC Under-11s added: “Today is about happiness for the kids. They’re enjoying it and meeting friends. The coaching and atmosphere has been brilliant today.”