Watford FC’s World-Famous Training Ground welcomed more than 110 young people on Thursday 30 October 2025 for a vibrant Community Tournament, delivered in partnership with Hertsmere Council and led by Watford FC’s Community Sports & Education Trust (CSE Trust).
The event brought together participants from Watford FC’s CSE Trust’s Premier League Kicks programme, Arsenal in the Community, Birmingham City FC Foundation, Waltham Cross Project, and the Friday Night Project, delivered by Sporting Inspirations. Each organisation delivers funded free sports and personal development opportunities designed to inspire young people, help them reach their potential, and reduce youth-related anti-social behaviour and crime.
The tournament featured both Under-14 and Under-16 competitions, with Watford FC’s CSE Trust (Cotlandswick) crowned U16 champions and Arsenal in the Community taking home the U14 trophy.
Special guest Councillor Ambassador Alpha Bird Collins, elected Town and Borough Councillor and current Mayor of Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council, attended the event. He met with all the teams and delivered an inspiring closing speech during the U14 presentation ceremony.
The charity Goods for Good supported the event by donating free hoodies, trainers, and sliders to every participant, ensuring all young people left with both memories and mementos from the day.
Adding further inspiration, Watford FC Men’s First Team players Imran Louza, Edo Kayembe, and Mamadou Doumbia attended the tournament. They took part in Q&A sessions and engaged with participants, acting as positive role models and highlighting the importance of teamwork, respect, and perseverance.
Referees on the day were drawn from the Watford FC CSE Trust’s Degree Programme, providing valuable match experience for aspiring young officials.
The day celebrated collaboration, inclusion, and the power of sport to change lives across Hertfordshire and beyond.
‘A huge thank you for hosting the tournament yesterday, all the kids absolutely loved it and were so thankful for the opportunity. Your team were amazing on the day’ – Abigail Stevens, Community Sport and Health Officer, Hertsmere Borough Council
‘It was such a brilliant experience for the kids, and the parents asked me to pass on their thanks for putting on such a wonderful day, they all had an amazing time!’ – Matt Ridley, Active Local Officer – Waltham Cross
Premier League Kicks, funded by the Premier League through the Premier League Charitable Fund, uses the power of football and sport to inspire young people to reach their potential, in some of the most high-need areas in England and Wales.