SCHOOLS

 

Craven District Cup

 
On Wed 29 June, Sandylands All-Weather Pitch hosted one of the largest school football tournaments Craven has ever witnessed.
 
Twenty schools competed in the event aimed at Primary Schools, Years 5 & 6, with every team having a minimum of two girls within their squad.
 
To ensure a successful day Bradford City Mascot Billy Bantham was there to greet and support the children

Billy Bantam with some of the players

 
Learning equipment manufacturers Factory Eleven supported the event, providing numerous activities for the children to try between matches !
(see picture above)
 
This was achieved by their multi-sports factory, which included tennis, soccer, hockey and golf.   All the children thoroughly enjoyed the challenges on offer and many teachers portrayed a close interest in the equipment by having a go !
 

Action from one of the games

The football was incredibly successful with every school relishing the opportunity to compete against schools from the farthest regions of the District.
 
Group games were played with the  winners qualifying for the semi-finals.  The first semi Water Street were narrowly defeated one nil by St Stephens, with the winning goal coming in extra time.  The other semi saw an equally tight game with Settle ‘A’ triumphant over a strong Carleton Endowed side.
 
The final was a close affair.  Chances were few and far between and even extra time could not separate the two sides.    Penalties ensued with the victors Settle ‘A’ winning the shootout 3-2
 
It is hoped the tournament will become an annual event and will work in conjunction with Out of Hours School Learning Programme in partnership with help from West Riding County FA in an attempt to improve opportunities for schools football and create School Club Links within the District.

(back row L-R) Rebecca Walters, Nicola Copley, Simon Armstrong, Billy Bantam

 
Rural Football Development Officer Simon Armstrong who organised the event paid tribute to Partnership Development Officer Rebecca Walters, County Development Officer Nicola Copley, Craven District Council, The Schools Sports Co-ordinator Programme and Factory Eleven for their help in supporting the event
 
Volunteers from Craven College did an excellent job to ensure children and teachers were well supported.
 

The tournament exemplified the results a good partnership scheme can provide.