YOUNG footballers recently came together to build new skills at the Mayor’s Cup 2026.
The three-day youth football and wellbeing programme was recently held at Ards Blair Mayne Wellbeing and Leisure Complex, with 150 young people aged 12-14, attending from across Ards and North Down, taking part through their local football clubs.
Aligned with this year’s theme, ‘A Sense of Belonging’, the programme helped participants grow in confidence, build new friendships and deepen their connection to the borough and to one another.
Delivered by Ards and North Down Council in partnership with Sport Changes Life, and supported by Ark Housing Association, Clanmil Housing, Radius Housing and Woven Housing, the programme formed part of the Department for Communities and Housing Executive’s Housing for All Shared Housing Programme.
Beyond football, participants took part in a series of interactive workshops designed to support personal development, resilience and positive relationships.
Young people reported gaining practical tools for managing stress, greater understanding of respect and tolerance and improved communication and teamwork skills.
The final day featured a World Cup-style mixed-team tournament, encouraging participants to meet new people and work together across club boundaries. Parents and carers joined for a family lunch and celebration event, with appearances from local sporting figures including David Jeffrey, Marissa Callaghan and Gerry Armstrong.
Mayor Gillian McCollum, said: “I am delighted with the success of the Mayor’s Cup. The young people embraced every aspect of the programme – from the football to the wellbeing workshops, and it was inspiring to see their confidence, friendships and sense of belonging grow over the three days.
“The programme took place during Children’s Mental Health Week, and we know how important it is to give young people safe spaces to explore resilience, teamwork and positive relationships. I want to thank all partners, coaches, volunteers and guests who delivered such a memorable and meaningful experience for the young people of our borough.”
