Schools from across Nottinghamshire come together in girls’ football tournament 

One hundred and thirty primary school pupils took part at The Forest Sports Zone.

Organised by Nottingham Forest Community Trust and The Flying High Partnership, the emphasis of the tournament was for children to have fun playing as many different teams as possible and to gain valuable experience.

Among 13 teams from Flying High schools taking part in the friendly matches were Leamington Primary and Nursery Academy, Sutton; Peafield Lane Academy, Mansfield Woodhouse; Bilsthorpe Flying High Academy; and Mapplewells Primary and Nursery School, Sutton. 

Photos by Lou Brimble

There was also a surprise visit by professional footballer Naomi Powell, of Nottingham Forest WFC, who met and spoke to the teams. 

“It is important for girls in football to have role models,” she said.

“I didn’t have a female role model in football to follow when I was younger and I felt it was important for me to come here and meet the teams so they can see where the sport can take you. 

“I loved sharing my experience with the teams. I hope to grow the women’s game and I find there is so much potential in the UK for women’s football to become big.

“I hope the children keep playing and learn to overcome any setbacks, developing resilience to move on in their game. So much can be gained from participating in sports.”

Abi Moody, engagement and communications manager at The Flying High Partnership, who helped organise the event, added:  “It was great to bring our schools together again, especially after two challenging years.

“We wanted to hold an event for our children where we could connect and allow our children to have fun and this event did exactly that. 

“Some of the children attending had never been to Nottingham or even played football before, so working with Nottingham Forest Community Trust allowed us to offer something completely new for those children, making memories and making every day count.”