THE sun had hits hat on today as thousands of young footballers, friends and family took part in this morning’s parade through Derry for the start of the Foyle Cup 2017.
It is the 25th anniversary of the tournament which has spotted many talented young footballers, including Derry’s Golden Boy James McClean.
He was back in his native city to launch the tournament where his skills were first spotted by football scouts.
The tournament is seen a major tourism boost to the city with hundreds of people, footballers and famillies, staying in local hostelries for the duration of the tournament.
The week long festival of football has attracted its biggest ever entry of 340 teams from the UK and Ireland, France, Germany, Finland, Canada and the USA.
Derry City and Strabane District Council are one of the main sponsors of the tournament and Mayor McHugh noted that it has grown to become one of the best youth football tournaments in Europe since its inception 25 years ago.
“On behalf of Derry City and Strabane District Council it is my genuine pleasure to welcome all the teams, coaches, families and supporters to the 2017 Hughes Insurance Foyle Cup,” he said.
“Council are delighted and proud to be able to sponsor and provide playing facilities for the event which is regarded as one of the biggest and best youth football tournaments in Europe.
“It generates significant spending in the local economy each year, attracting huge visitor numbers to our region and promoting healthy choices and team building skills in our young people.”
The Foyle Cup started out as an eight team, one day event in 1992 but has grown year on year into an international tournament hosted across venues in Derry, Donegal and Tyrone.
The tournament attracts scouts from all the major clubs in the UK and has played a key role in the development of many current professional players.
“I would like to congratulate the tournament organisers, the Derry and District Youth Football Association, not just for their work this year but over the past 25 years of this wonderful competition,” continued Mayor McHugh.
“It is particularly pleasing that so many people and teams return to spend time in our region for the tournament each year which I believe speaks volumes about the welcome afforded to them.
“Good luck to all the teams taking part, I hope you all have a brilliant competition, play to the best of your ability and create memories that will last a lifetime.”
Full Foyle Cup fixtures and results are available on the tournament website www.foylecup.com or on the Foyle Cup app.
