A grassroots football league is celebrating its biggest season yet, with record numbers of children taking to the pitch and a growing appetite for the game among young players.
Children and staff at All Saints’ Thurlestone C of E Academy, part of the Learning Academy Partnership, are marking another successful year of their school premier league, now in its fourth season.
This year has seen 78 children sign up to take part, compared with 55 in the inaugural season. Open to boys and girls in years three, four, five and six, the league features 20-minute matches held on Friday afternoons and is designed to welcome those trying football for the first time.
The competition is hosted across All Saints’ Thurlestone C of E Academy, Charleton C of E Academy and West Alvington C of E Academy. It allows pupils to represent their schools, build confidence and take pride in being part of a team.
Teams play each other twice during the season, which runs from March to July, before trophies are awarded. These include the AST Trophy for the champions, a Golden Boot for the top scorer and a Player of the Season award.
The season concludes with a closing ceremony recognising all participants, featuring music, dance and celebrations aimed at creating lasting memories for those involved.
Hannah Ruston, headteacher at All Saints’ Thurlestone C of E Academy, said: “The league is about more than football, it’s about giving children a safe and supportive environment to try new things, develop confidence, and celebrate achievement together.
“Seeing the children enjoy the matches and then come together for the closing celebration is always a highlight of the year.”
Tracey Cleverly, chief executive of Learning Academy Partnership, said: “We’re thrilled to see the league continue to grow each year.
“It’s fantastic to watch children of all abilities come together, try something new, and feel proud of being part of a team.
“This league creates lasting memories that go far beyond the pitch.”
The league continues to expand annually, offering children across the trust’s schools opportunities to take part in sport and teamwork.
