CORE Assets has hailed its annual football tournament it’s most successful yet, after welcoming around 1,200 people to the event which took place last weekend (July 25th – 27th.) Staff, children and families from the South West were amongst the attendees, playing against teams put forward from the 12 FCA regions and Countries, FCA Scotland, Fostering First Ireland, PKS Finland and, for the first time, Fostering People Three teams from the South West entered the tournament, which takes the form of a residential weekend held in Nottingham during the school summer holidays is organised to develop children and young people’s participation in competitive sports as well as having fun and build relationships with other young people.

Now in its 11th year, this year’s event saw 62 teams take part Hefin Daniels, who has coordinated the event for the past eight years, said: “This is a pivotal event in our calendar, and it gets bigger every year. In 2003 FCA decided to host this event for both children and young people placed with FCA, and also for the children of FCA’s fostering families. As the Group has grown in the UK and internationally we have developed the tournament into the Core Assets International Football Tournament”. “Last year we reached the landmark 10th anniversary with more than 1,000 participants, and this year eclipsed that. In 2012, our Finnish arm brought one team over; this year, 45people flew in and entered four teams!” Hefin added that the event was an excellent development experience for all the youngsters involved, who thrive on the preparation, training and the weekend itself.

“Open to children over the age of nine, who are placed with foster carers who work on behalf of the Core Assets Group, the tournament is something that young people really look forward to. It encourages them to develop social, communication and team working skills, as well as encouraging them to be more active, embrace healthy competition and interact with different peer groups.

“Many of the children and young people who join from our international countries have never travelled overseas or even been on a plane. This tournament provides a myriad of new opportunities and experiences for those involved,” he added.

This year’s event included a number of activities including a climbing wall, pedal go-karts and a bouncy castle to entertain children not taking part in the football matches.

Hefin added: “This year was a wonderful experience for everyone involved. The sheer number of teams, combined with perfect weather, made it a tournament to remember. Seeing the passion and joy on everyone’s faces made it a pleasure to be a part of – I’m extremely proud to have played my part.”

During the course of the weekend, the FCA also raised £295 via prize draws, which will be donated to the Rees Foundation who work with care experienced young people.