Young People Represent Active Local at National 6v6 Football Tournament

Young people from Herts Sport & Physical Activity Partnership’s (HSP) Active Local Waltham Cross and Cowley Hill project enjoyed a moment to remember at Watford FC’s prestigious Training Ground on Thursday 30 October 2025, taking part in a special community 6v6 football tournament that brought together teams from across the country. 

Delivered by Watford FC’s Community Sports & Education Trust (CSE Trust) in partnership with Hertsmere Borough Council and supported by the HSP, the event gave more than 110 young people the chance to play on elite facilities, meet professional players and connect through the power of sport. 

Teams representing Active Local Waltham Cross and Cowley Hill, Watford FC’s Premier League Kicks programme, Arsenal in the Community, Birmingham City FC Foundation, and Friday Night Project delivered by Sporting Inspirations, competed across both Under-14 and Under-16 competitions. Watford FC’s CSE Trust (Cotlandswick) were crowned U16 champions, while Arsenal in the Community lifted the U14 trophy. 

The day was about more than competition, it was about creating opportunities, building confidence, and giving young people experiences in sport they will never forget. Participants from HSP’s Active Local areas gained not only match experience but also new friendships, self-belief and a sense of pride in representing their communities. 

Councillor Alpha Bird Collins, Mayor of Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council attended the event, meeting players and delivering an inspiring closing speech. The charity Goods for Good also supported the day by donating hoodies, trainers and sliders to every participant, removing barriers to participation, ensuring all young people left with both memories and mementos to remember their experience. 

Adding to the excitement, Watford FC Men’s First Team players Imran Louza, Edo Kayembe, and Mamadou Doumbia joined the event, taking part in Q&A sessions and inspiring participants by sharing their own journeys in professional football and the importance of teamwork and dedication. 

Matt Ridley, Active Local Officer for Waltham Cross, said: 

“It was such a brilliant experience for the kids, and their parents couldn’t stop talking about it! Seeing young people from our Active Local areas take part in something like this shows the power of sport to connect communities and create opportunities they’ll never forget.” 

Abigail Stevens, Community Sport and Health Officer at Hertsmere Borough Council, added: 

“A huge thank you to everyone involved in hosting the tournament. The young people absolutely loved it, and it’s brilliant to see so many organisations come together to create such an inspiring day.” 

The Premier League Kicks programme, funded through the Premier League Charitable Fund, uses the power of football to engage and inspire young people in some of the most high-need areas across England and Wales. By connecting with Active Local Waltham Cross and Cowley Hill, HSP helps ensure that these opportunities reach the communities who benefit most. 

HSP will continue to work alongside Watford FC’s CSE Trust, Hertsmere Borough Council, and local partners to deliver inclusive, community-led opportunities that use physical activity as a tool for connection and personal growth. 

To learn more about HSP’s Active Local project and how to get involved, please visit www.sportinherts.org.uk/active-local.