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St Andrew’s Prep Football Festival

The St Andrew’s Prep sports field was packed with children and their parents on Saturday afternoon as approximately 350 boys and girls, aged 7-10 years old, representing 36 teams from local primary schools and football clubs, gathered under blue skies for the fifth St Andrew’s Prep Football Festival.

With the emphasis on enjoyment and skill development, each team played between seven and ten mini-matches on the school pitches at the foot of the South Downs. There were no winners or losers but every child received a medal and certificate for their determined efforts. Following the success of the women’s England team who reached the last four of the 2015 World Cup in Canada, female participation in the sport is on the rise, so it was especially pleasing to see eight teams fielded in the Under 10/11 girls’ section.

Support was passionate from the side-lines and energetic and enthusiastic teamwork was evident on each of the ten football pitches. Outstanding performances were noted by the many teachers, FA approved coaches and officials present.

St Andrew’s Prep Headmaster, Gareth Jones said, “This festival is about fun in the community and we are absolutely thrilled that so many children got involved in our festival and gained from it technically, physically and socially. I was particularly impressed by the teams’ positivity both on and off the pitches which helped to make this a very special day. I’d like to express my gratitude to all those who helped stage this event for the community with special thanks to Chris Pinch, Joint Director of Sport at St Andrew’s Prep, and his wife Cheryl who is also on our sports staff.”

All contributions made towards the refreshments have been sent to Sport Relief which helps people living tough lives across the UK and Africa.