Swans Foundation Kicks participants progress to national finals in PL Kicks Cup

A team of Swansea City AFC Foundation Premier League Kicks participants has reached the national finals of the PL Kicks Cup at St George's Park.

The Kicks Cup is an under-16 tournament which gives programme attendees the opportunity to represent their local club and compete against teams from club community organisations across the country.

Swans Foundation entered a team for both the mixed and girls' categories in the south-west regional finals, which were hosted by Swindon Town FC Community Foundation.

In addition to the football tournament, all participants took part in an informative workshop run by the Premier League.

The Foundation’s girls' team scored with the final kick of their semi-final to book their place in the day’s final, and also secure their spot at the PL Kicks Cup national finals at the England national teams' St George’s Park base. That tournament will be held in July.

“It was a massive opportunity for everyone ” said Craig Richards, youth engagement manager at Swansea City AFC Foundation.

“The mixed team did really well, they had a lot of tough games but they stuck together, so we’re proud of them for that.

“The girls will enjoy the opportunity to travel to the national finals and represent the Swans again.

"To go to St George’s Park will be something so special for them that they can remember forever.”

Celyn and Lucy played their part in the girls' team’s success, and can’t wait for the next stage of the competition.

“I really enjoyed because it’s been so nice to play against different teams, and representing the Swans has been amazing,” said Lucy.

“It’s been an honour to wear this kit and we’ve got to meet new people, so that’s been really good."

Celyn added: “My favourite part has to be the semi-final because it was so competitive and everyone wanted to win.”