The MCFA Charter Standard Cup, in its second year, took part over 3 evenings in early June.

"We were hoping to latch onto the football fever created by the Euro 2004 tournament in Portugal," said Middlesex Football Development Officer Jason Kilby, "and it appeared to work. 18 teams committed to the tournament, open only to Charter Standard Clubs".

Teams were split into 4 groups over 2 evenings, and played in mini-leagues, to determine who would go through to the semi-final groups then onto the final match. The tournament was for the new Under 11 teams, to give them some experience playing 11-a-side football.

Entry was free by invitation only, sanctioned by the Governance team, referees and assistants were staffed by the Referees Officer, physios by the Coach Education team and trophies presented by County Youth Secretary, Mike Heavey.

"It was a real team effort to get the tournament up and running, the whole County FA staff got involved, even our Deputy Chief Executive put on his ref’s kits to make a few dodgy decisions," commented Jason.

Middlesex’s CS clubs taking part were, Northwood, Wealdstone, Pinnacle, Bedfont Eagles, Harrow St Marys, Parkfield, Explorers, Pinnstars, Princes Park, Harlington and Hayes Youth.

To find out how your club could become Charter Standard contact the FDO on
020 8515 1925 or jason.kilby@middlsexfa.com