The festival in its 2nd year is  jointly organised by Manchester FA, Wright Robinson Sports College, Failsworth Sports College, Ashton on Mersey High School, Brookway High School and Our Lady’s and the Schools Sports Co-ordinator programmes, marking the culmination of a large after school football development programme in Greater Manchester.

Leading up to the event Sport College student’s were trained in the FA Junior Football Organiser course which led to everyone being actively involved in the organisation of the festival.

All student’s assumed key roles such as transport co-ordinator, referee co-ordinator, referees and various other key administration roles.

Also as part of the event, teachers from all the schools involved received training on the benefits of applying for the FA Charter Standard School Status.

Every child was given a medal and certificate to commemorate their participation in the event.  Wilbraham School who represented England won the overall prize whilst the fair play trophy was won by Bowker Vale who represented Italy.

Manchester FA Football Development Officer, Philip Heap said: "The Schools Festival was a great occasion and demonstrated that the FA Junior Football Organises course now offers opportunities to not only participate in the game, but also to organise and officiate in it."

Manchester FA has formed a strong partnership with the Specialist Sports Colleges in the area and this can only be beneficial for football in the long term.

Jon Marshall, Partnership Development Manager at Wright Robinson Sports College added: “This is now the second year of the festival which has proved to be a great success and opportunity for all boys and girls at schools in Greater Manchester to participate against each other in a fun environment.

"Not only have the children had the opportunity to pit their wits against each other but the event has proved to be a great catalyst at getting young people involved in the organisation, coaching and officiating of the game."

The Euro 2004 Championship left a positive legacy in Northamptonshire too.

The Northants FA ran a Euro 2004 themed festival for over 600 children, with all of the Under 8’s having an opportunity to play on the McDonalds inflatable pitch (pictured).

Each child received a certificate and a free gift and each pitch had a team winner for the fair play award.

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