Football: We’ll remain united despite cash setbacks
Unity Cup Rangers, Allstars and St Mary’s grab trophies in thrilling finals
Published: 12 August, 2010
by STEVE BARNETT
ORGANISERS behind one of the biggest five-a-side youth football competitions in London are confident that they can restore the prestigious tournament back to its best following their lowest-ever turnout.
In the past more than 700 youngsters from across Camden and Islington have donned their football kits and tied up their laces to take part in the Camden Unity Cup.
This year, however, barely 200 eight- to 16-year-olds joined in the action after organisers Fitzrovia Youth in Action struggled to raise funding. Lack of cash means that the Unity Cup has had to drop both the under-18s age group and the girls’ category.
Raaj Miah, who works as a Youth Participation Officer at Fitzrovia, said: “Obviously we’re disappointed because we want everyone is be able to take part in the Unity Cup, but we simply didn’t have the money this year.
“Considering the resources we had to work with, everyone has done a great job. Everyone is feeling the credit crunch at the moment so finding funding has been difficult.
“Ideally, the authorities would have pots of cash in place for ongoing projects like ours that are continually successful. Maybe it could be something they look into.
“Although the competition is smaller than it has been in recent years just as much hard work has gone into it behind the scenes.
“We had to downscale the event this year just to keep the cup alive, but we’re confident we can bounce back next summer and be even bigger and better than before.”
On Friday at the Castlehaven sports pitch, Chettle Court Rangers were crowned under-12s champions while Camden Allstars beat Somers Town on penalties to win the under-10s trophy. There was also joy for St Mary’s who lifted the under-16s cup.
The under-14s cup is being held at Cumberland Market on September 11 from 10am to 5pm. Call Fitzrovia Youth in Action on 020 7388 7399 to register a team.