Archive Council News

18.07.06

5 A Side World Cup Kicks Off in Wrexham

If you thought it was all over you're in for a surprise as football fever grips Wrexham again with the start of a 5 a side World Cup tournament which kicked off at Rhosnesni Sports Centre, Rhosnesni Lane, Wrexham.

The tournament will involve young people from all over the County Borough aged 13 - 15 and 16 - 18 years. Members of Wrexham Council's Sports Development Department, who organised the event, in partnership with the Community Safety Partnership have secured sponsorship from HSBC for the tournament which will finish at the end of August with the grand finals being played at the Racecourse Ground.

Wrexham footballers Danny Williams and Mark Jones drew the teams' countries and the day ended with a match between Wrexham Police and Marcher Radio which was skillfully refereed by UEFA qualified Mike Jones, who will referee all the matches. The prestigious mini world cup launch day trophy was eventually won by Wrexham Police in a 4 - 0 win.

The competition officially commences on Tuesday 25th July when the under 18's play at Ruabon Sports Centre. Thanks to the sponsorship of HSBC, all teams will be presented with strips representing the colours of the world cup countries and the finalists will receive medals and a mini replica of the world cup will be lifted by the winning side.

Claire Burrows, of Wrexham's Sports Development Department, said:

"This is an excellent example of partnership working and is giving young people the opportunity to take part in a great event and benefit from healthy exercise at the same time. Staff have worked hard to ensure the tournament's success and we are looking forward to future partnership events in the county borough."

Dyfrig Roberts of Wrexham's HSBC said:

"HSBC is delighted to be part of this event, we have been supporting the communities in which we operate for 139 years. We draw our staff and customers from the local community so it's only right we put something back."

Leader of Wrexham Council, Aled Roberts, who was at the event, said:

"It is very encouraging to see so many young people actively involved in sport and looking forward to a friendly but hard fought contest. I know they will all enjoy themselves and I hope to be present when the cup is lifted by the eventual winners. Good luck everyone!"