Warwickshire wins West Midlands care experienced football tournament

Warwickshire Legends have retained their title at a recent football tournament for care leavers.

The annual tournament saw local authority care leaver teams from the West Midlands showcase their football skills and resilience at Wolverhampton Wanderers’ 32,000 capacity Molineux Stadium.

Warwickshire Legends entered this year's competition aiming to defend their trophy after their victory in 2023 and triumphed after a series of impressive performances.

Most members of the team arrived in Warwickshire as unaccompanied asylum-seeking children, bonding over their shared love for football and regularly attending Sunday training sessions. Reflecting on their journey since their formation in 2019, Umar Teerab, a Family Support Worker – as well as the football team manager, coach and goalkeeper – said the sport has built resilience and strong bonds between the players.

“It is lovely to see them when they come together and to see how they have grown as a team and improved their skills. We always believed in them, and their progress and recent win proves the benefits of hard work.”

Council leaders said the success underscores the power of sport in bringing communities together and providing opportunities for personal growth.

Sue Markham, Portfolio Holder for Children and Families at Warwickshire County Council expressed her pride in the young players and their deserved win.

“Football has proven to be an asset; many of our participants, who arrived as unaccompanied asylum-seeking children without their families, have endured challenging experiences. Engaging in sports and uniting as their own football family to represent Warwickshire brings about a significant positive impact for them.

“Our dedication lies in fostering a bright future for all care-experienced children and young people. We aspire to build a Child-Friendly Warwickshire where every child and young person flourishes and enjoys equal opportunities to thrive.”