A new term, plenty of goals ⚽
The new school year is already off to a flying start for Atlas Games. Four football events have brought children together to represent their schools, try something new and enjoy being active with their friends. There have been plenty of goals along the way, but the moments we've loved most have been the growing confidence, encouraging teammates and proud smiles.
Teamwork on show at Painswick RFC
Our annual small and large school football competitions returned to Painswick RFC, welcoming more than 300 players across the Year 3/4 and Year 5/6 formats.
For some children, it was their first chance to play at an Atlas event. For others, it was an opportunity to come back together as a school team after the summer break. Across the two competitions, there was plenty of passion, progress and teamwork as players found their feet and supported one another.
Seeing children combine for a pass, celebrate a teammate's goal or keep going after a tricky moment is a lovely reminder of everything school sport can offer.
More opportunities for girls to get involved
Next came our first events through our FA Girls' Football in Schools provision, held at Archway Secondary School's new 4G pitch facility. The two events offered different ways for girls to enjoy the game, with support suited to their stage of development.
For the Year 3/4 girls, the focus was on learning and building confidence. Coaching gave players the chance to practise the fundamentals, develop their skills and have a go in an encouraging environment. Our coaching team were so proud of the progress they saw as the event unfolded.
For the Year 5/6 girls, it was time for a school competition, with 180 players across 15 teams taking to four pitches to compete for the district title. There was skill, determination and plenty of support from the sidelines.
A close final and a proud moment for Thrupp
The final brought Foxmoor Primary and Thrupp Primary together for a closely contested finish. Thrupp Primary edged it by a single goal to take the title. A big congratulations to Thrupp, and to Foxmoor for reaching the final!
Just as much praise goes to every player who took part. Whether they were scoring goals, helping a teammate or finding the confidence to get involved, there was so much to celebrate across the day.
Confidence that carries beyond the pitch
Four years ago, we introduced development events for girls' football. Looking at the confidence, understanding and skills on show now, it's lovely to see how those opportunities have grown.
We want girls to have the chance to enjoy football in a nurturing environment, with fewer barriers to getting involved. That experience might encourage a child to join a local team, take new skills back to their club or simply feel more confident playing at school.
There is no single next step every child needs to take. Enjoying the game and feeling able to join in are achievements worth celebrating in their own right.
Thank you for a brilliant start
To the children, school staff, supporters and our coaching team: thank you for making these first four events such a positive start to the academic year. Seeing children happy, active and proud of what they've achieved is exactly why we love what we do.
There are plenty more Atlas Games events to come, and we can't wait to see what the rest of the year brings.
Want to find out more about school sports events with Atlas? Take a look at Atlas Games to learn more about this part of our work.
James is our Head of Operations for Atlas Games and loves sport in all its forms. Watching, playing or coaching, he's happiest when there's a game to get involved in. Away from the pitch, you'll often find him out walking or cycling, with a good coffee stop firmly on the route. He also loves exploring cities, taking in the architecture, interiors, art and culture along the way.
