As plans continue to progress, both Antiguan and overseas clubs and teams are reminded that the registration deadline is fast approaching to participate in staging the second edition of the Antigua Cup next month.
The Antigua Cup, which comprised the International Youth Football Tournament from July 6 to 13 and the Player Development Camp from July 14 to 18, will be held at the Buckley’s Primary School playing field.
The deadline for teams to indicate their interest in participating in the event, which is organized by the Young Warriors Football Club (YWFC), is Saturday, May 31.
The event will also feature an end-of-tournament fundraising concert, which is dubbed Big Bands & Artists Showdown, at the Environmental Division grounds in St. John’s on July 12.
The organizers of the Antigua Cup, which is open to boys’ and girls’ teams, have invited Antiguan and overseas clubs and teams to compete in age-group competitions comprising players in the Under-10, Under-13, Under-15, and Under-17 categories.
According to a media release from the YWFC, “To date, interest to participate in the event has been shown by clubs in Antigua and Barbuda, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, St. Lucia, and Dominica.
“The primary objective of this initiative is to foster grassroots development and to provide a strong foundation for young athletes to grow in skills, discipline, and sportsmanship.
“Beyond sport, the Young Warriors Football Club has played an instrumental role as a community partner, assisting numerous boys and girls in accessing educational opportunities and scholarships, both locally and internationally.
“This tournament not only aims to elevate sporting talent but also to reinforce the importance of education and character development.
“Participating youth will be involved in community outreach initiatives and educational workshops, shaping them into responsible, motivated young adults.
“The YWFC is currently funded primarily through community-driven fundraisers and other contributions.
“Organising an international event of this nature is significant, and for this reason, YWFC has been seeking the generous partnership of the corporate community to help grow this impactful initiative and make it accessible to children – many from underserved communities and single-parent households – who otherwise might not have the opportunity.
“Business, government and social leaders will be invited to speak to the youth and share words of encouragement and vision during the Player Development Seminars, which will focus on education, health, and lifestyle topics.
“Such interactions help inspire our players to dream bigger and see themselves in future leadership roles.”
