Far North Queensland’s biggest summer soccer tournament starts today (9 October) with more than 60 teams and 420 players of all ages competing in the Jamie Gosling Football Academy (JGFA) Champions League competition in Cairns.
The tournament, which runs every Wednesday at Endeavour Park until March 2020, will see the best junior players from across the region compete in 5-a-side games for Under 6s to Under 14s, with an adult competition also starting next month.
Jamie Gosling said the ever-growing tournament, now in its fourth year, received a record number of entries this year which led to JGFA moving the competition from its previous home at Stratford FC to Endeavour Park.
“The tournament provides an exciting opportunity for local junior soccer players to test themselves against the best while playing for their favourite Champions League club,” said Jamie.
“It’s been exciting to see the growth of the competition over the past few years, and we can’t wait for this year’s event to start.
“Through this tournament, we can offer soccer-mad children the chance to keep playing the beautiful game in the off-season.
“It creates more pathways and opportunities for our young football players in Far North Queensland.
“There’s some great talent in the Cairns region, and I look forward to seeing the players compete against each other this week.”
Jamie said the tournament offers players a “real-life Champions League experience”, with teams registered including football giants Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester United and Juventus.
“We try to make all the juniors feel special and what it may feel like to play for a real Champions League club,” he said.
“This includes playing in the club’s authentic kits, walk-out music, pre-game line-ups, official Champions League match-balls, and awards for winners, runners-up and top goalscorers.
“It’s a great family occasion, and with around 1,000 people attending each Wednesday, it’s an amazing atmosphere for everyone, whether they’re playing or just supporting.”
For more information on Jamie Gosling Football Academy, visit www.jgfa.com.au or contact Jamie on 0450 181 626.