XG Magazine - Issue 1, June 2024

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TO THE FIRST OF MANY. WELCOME TO XG MAGAZINE

It’s the end of 2023/2024 local football season and as I sit here writing my first ever editors message for XG Magazine, not one but two things I ponder. Firsty, of the excitement, albeit slightly apprehensive of how i’m feeling, in bringing you the very first issue. It’s been a long time in the making. Secondly, is this going to work? Am I doing the right thing?

Then I remind myself that I am a huge football fan. I love football. I adore football. I’ve been in love with the beautiful game for as long as I can remember. From an early age, football was everywhere in my house. My eldest brother was a die hard Man United fan and the sound of his rattler echoing through the house from dawn to dusk and the countless number of red and white scarves and memorabilia was enough to stir my curiosity, from there, I was hooked.

Northern Ireland in the 70’s, 80’s and early 90’s was a dark, dull place. There wasn’t much to enjoy. Football, for many back then, offered an escapism and allowed us to forget what was happening outside and enjoy, for 90 minutes anyway, what was happening on our TV screens in relative safety of our living rooms.

Thankfully though, even through challenging times, we’ve always had the knack to carry on as normal. In “our wee country”, we have always had a wealth of talent when it came to producing great players. Players like George Best, Pat Jennings, Norman Whiteside, Danny Blanchflower to name but a few, were at the forefront of all that was good and without question put us well and truly on the world map. So It’s hardly surprising now, we have a flourishing youth footballing culture, where parents are signing their kids up, from an early age, to local clubs, hoping that perhaps one day they can emulate the greats of the past, but more importantly cultivating friendships while learning vital life skills along the way.

In this first issue we interview Tim Wareing, who gives an insight into life as a qualified coach, holding the prestigious UEFA European ‘A’ Licence; from setting up www.twsports.org to his early days at Irish Premiership club, Lisburn Distillery.

We review some of the latest ranges of football cleats, a must have accessory of every footballers boot bag. Who doesn’t like a shiny, brand new pair of boots?

Every month we’ll bring you quizzes, competitions to win great prizes and lots more. So referee, blow that whistle and lets kick this issue off. Enjoy.

Darren Walsh Editor

SIR MATT BUSBY

Access loads of great content

• Coaches Interviews

• Football Quizzes

• News

• Competitions

• Product Reviews

• & much more

UEFA A Licence Coach with over 25 years coaching experience, academy director of TW Sports.org and coach at TW Braga, Tim Wareing, talks about his love for football, his commitment to grassroots and youth fooball in Northern Ireland and his plans for the future.

Tim Wareing one - one WITH

1. RUN IS THROUGH A TYPICAL DAY.

Most days, I’ll start with a 3 minute ice bath. I never thought I’d be one to enjoy this type of experience, especially given how much I love warmth. Sun, saunas and hot tubs are more to my liking, but I love how cold water therapy can really give you both a mental and physical boost. I love coffee, so an espresso is always next on the list. It may surprise people to read that more of my time is taken up with non coaching jobs, so for a few hours each morning I’ll be answering emails, making calls, updating social media and banking before prepping the sessions later in the day.

During school terms, my coaching hours generally don’t start until 2 or 3pm. I love the variation. I’ll have an after school club, deliver a 1-on-1 session with one of my students, then run sessions at some of my toddler and mini soccer centres. Evening sessions will be at our club, TW Braga. I try to keep on top of enquiries coming in through the day, supporting my staff, players and parents when needed. The hours can be long, though nothing compared to when I was in the early years of setting up the business, the hours then were crazy. You need to put that time in when trying to establish yourself, and when young, you have the energy to do that! In recent years, I have tried to focus on more self care so I try to incorporate some into my day, anything from relaxation techniques, walking, exercise and, of course, the morning cold dip!

2. WHAT'S YOUR DAY JOB?

I am a full time coach. I launched TWSports.Org in 2005 offering Mini Soccer to children aged 5-13 through after school programs, holiday camps and birthday party coaching packages. I was the first to offer Toddler Soccer in Northern Ireland which introduces children to football from the age of 2. As I developed the business further, I offered 1-on-1 coaching, our elite academy along with an online coaching platform. I shared a lot of the sessions online and our YouTube channel hit over 1 million views. With numerous requests coming in wanting more coaching support, I published the first of what would be 4 coaching books. To date, they have sold in over 30 different countries and this has also allowed me to visit several countries, including Belgium, Finland, Australia and the USA, to deliver coaching clinics.

In 2013 we launched our club, TW Braga. We offer football for all from the age of 2 up. We have teams for boys and girls, a disability team, an over 40’s team, and a number of other exciting projects are in the pipeline for the future.

My philosophy is heavily influenced by the Dutch. So I do like a 4-3-3 system.

3. WHY COACHING?

I’ve played football all my life. One of the teams I played for asked would I be interested in helping develop a youth team. At the tender age of 18, I started coaching whilst continuing to play. By 24 I had achieved my UEFA A Licence. At the time, I was the youngest to achieve this qualification in Northern Ireland. I always saw this as a great hobby that I enjoyed during my down time.

I left school at 16 and was fortunate to work for a wonderful independent travel agency. It was small, but my manager and the staff were lovely and it was here, with their help and guidance, that I earned my business degree. Over the 10 years, I progressed from making the tea and coffee, hoovering the floor and stamping brochures to booking flights, holidays and cruises.

I acquired a lot of business acumen whilst there, from marketing and dealing with customers to looking after their travel arrangements, dealing with payments and communicating with suppliers. It was unreal. I got to travel the world and I gained the experience I required for the next phase in my life - running my own business. When the agency shut down and I was made redundant, I thought, I’ve nothing to lose, and turned my hobby into my own business and new job. That was during the summer of 2005. I haven¹t looked back since, but along with all the highs, there have been many challenges too.

4. WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR DOWN TIME?

I love spending time with my children. I enjoy getting out for long walks and socialising with friends. Getting across to Manchester to see my eldest son when I can is wonderful, and catching a Manchester United game whilst there is

always a bonus. Any opportunity I can get to travel, I jump at it. To experience a new place, learn about new culture and meet new people. I also love furthering my education as a football coach. Club visits, meeting coaches and exchanging ideas and concepts is a passion of mine.

5. YOU'VE WORKED WITH MANY BIG CLUBS, TELL US ABOUT THAT?

I always set myself a challenge to visit 2 clubs per season. One in the UK and another in Europe. I’ve been fortunate to visit the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City, Derby County, Barcelona, Ajax, PSV Eindhoven, Sporting Lisbon and SC Braga to name but a few. When you visit pro clubs it energises you. Apart from learning new things, meeting with some highly experienced coaches there are some humbling experiences you leave with. On one visit to PSV Eindhoven, we were in the academy room grabbing some lunch and coffee. Marco van Basten was sitting there. Not only did he allow us to take a photo with him, he welcomed our company and chatted happily until he needed to attend a meeting. Afterwards, before leaving, he came by to say, ‘It was lovely to meet you gentlemen, have a great day’. A European Championship winner with the Netherlands in 1988. One of the game’s finest strikers, yet so humble. Currently I am part of the Friends of the Academy with Manchester United. This is a fantastic idea for a top professional club to reach out to grassroots coaches and share their concepts. It’s so refreshing that such a massive club provides this. There are regular meetings throughout the season from online tutorials to club visits to the training ground at Carrington and The Cliff.

Currently I am part of the Friends of the Academy with Manchester United. This is a fantastic idea for a top professional club to reach out to grassroots coaches and share their concepts. This is so refreshing that such a massive club provide this. There is regular meetings throughout the season from online tutorials to club visits to the training ground at Carrington and The Cliff.

6. IS THERE A LINK BETWEEN SC BRAGA IN PORTUGAL AND TW BRAGA HERE IN NORTHERN IRELAND.

My good friend, Hugo Vicente, was the assistant academy director at SC Braga. We met on a coaching visit in the Netherlands and kept in contact. I helped SC Braga secure a place in a tournament in Dublin. It involved SC Braga, Arsenal, Barcelona, West Brom and Celtic along with a few local sides. Hugo wanted to thank me, so I asked if they would come up to Belfast to play my academy in a friendly. He agreed and we played a great game against SC Braga 1999 age group. We drew 1-1 and Hugo commented imagine what you can achieve if you had these players more than once a week. We got talking and the idea of setting up our own club was decided back in 2012.

Apart from having a link with a pro club, the other thing I was passionate about was trying to be one of the most inclusive clubs in Northern Ireland. We have a troubled past. I didn¹t want to align or name my club within an area of Northern Ireland. I didn¹t want to be looked upon as a Protestant or Catholic based club. The link with SC Braga would help unite 2 communities. It was agreed we would play in similar kits, use their badge and enter teams into local leagues. We would link in with our community based project, TW Sports, with the club being known as TW Braga. The club celebrated 10 years in operation during 2023. Along with uniting 2 communities we celebrate having over 22 different nationalities at the club now. I love how sport, and football, unites.

7. WHO'S YOUR HERO IN FOOTBALL?

Eric Cantona. He was my boyhood hero. I just loved how he played the game. His passion. His talent and freedom. His presence. I was fortunate to meet him when I was 20. Honestly, he was the only player I have met that I was completely in awe of. 25 years later I met him again. I spent a weekend in Marseille with him recently. I was like a little boy having the opportunity to

speak to him, ask him questions, play pétanque with him and enjoy a few drinks with him. Life can be funny. What a weekend and experience!

8. WHO'S YOUR FAVOURITE TEAM?

Manchester United. I love to get across to see them play. With my eldest son now living in Manchester, it is great to see them both on a regular basis. We enjoyed the exciting FA Cup game (and victory!) against Liverpool this season.

9. IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT FORMATION IS BEST?

My philosophy is heavily influenced by the Dutch. So I do like a 4-3-3 system. Of course there are many modern day twists on that formation. Likewise you need to adapt to suit the players you have at your disposal. The first age group we kicked off the TW Braga project with was our 2002 age group. We won a league with that group in the 2014/15 season and played a 4-3-3 system. The players we had, the system was just perfect. We were very disciplined with our back 4 and the bank of 3 in front. The front 3 were unbelievable. Although we worked patterns of play, I gave them complete freedom. How creative they were, it was only right to let them play. That team was probably one of the most complete and exciting groups of players I¹ve ever worked with. 3 from that group of players have turned professional.

10. GREATEST SPORTS-PERSON OF ALL TIME?

Sir Alex Ferguson. What he achieved in the game was phenomenal. To be so successful at Aberdeen in breaking the dominance of Rangers and Celtic. The successful European trophy. Then, to head south and deliver the impossible. A huge club that hadn¹t won the league in 26 years. The dominance of English football for such a long duration and playing such an exciting brand of football while building talented, home grown players. He rebuilt teams and adapted all the time. The focus on youth - what Manchester United stand for - was incredible then and still is now. His man management was unreal. The success of the treble in 1999 was unbelievable. He will go down as one of the all time and most successful managers.

11. WHY DO YOU THINK THE MAIN REASON FOR PARENTS TO GET THEIR KIDS INTO PLAYING YOUTH FOOTBALL AT LOCAL CLUBS?

The main reasons should be enjoyment. The importance of exercise, playing in a team, meeting new people and creating life long friends. To sample so much from learning skills, feeling so many feelings. Success, overcoming disappointment, working in a team. Nowadays I believe we try to protect our kids too much by moving them around looking for the ‘best’ team, rather than letting them settle and enjoy the years they won¹t get back. Find an environment that suits your child and enjoy the experience with them. Parents play such an important role.

12. ANY ADVICE TO ANYONE LOOKING TO GET INTO YOUTH/ GRASSROOTS COACHING?

Enjoy the experience. Never get too high when things are going well, nor get too low when things aren¹t going as well. Always look to learn and better yourself so you can become a better coach for all the young people you have the pleasure to work with. Be prepared. Be a role model. Remember as a coach you are in a position that allows you to be able to play such a positive role in young people’s lives. To inspire young people and help guide and develop them is such a wonderful experience. I’ve been fortunate to be coaching in youth football for over 25 years. Children I coached back when I started are now returning as young coaches. Some are returning as parents, bringing their children to enjoy the coaching they once did!

If you have the opportunity to work with a good mentor and a club with a great pathway of development, take it. If you have the opportunity to find a good mentor and a club with a great pathway of development take it.

Tim Wareing one - one with

player Profile

Favourites

Every issue we will be asking a player from various teams across Northern Ireland, what’s their “favourites?”. In a feature we like to call "Player Profile Favourites".

NAME: Rylee Walsh

AGE: 10

TEAM: TW Braga 2013

TW Braga 2013

POSITION: Centre Forward

FAVOURITE FOOD:

BBQ Chicken and chips

FAVOURITE FOOTBALL TEAM: Manchester United

FAVOURITE PLAYER Garnacho

FAVOURITE SCHOOL SUBJECT

PLAYER: SUBJECT: Numeracy

FAVOURITE HOBBY

FAVOURITE TEAM MATE

HOBBY: Selling sweets : Leo

If you would like your child to be featured in Player Profile Favourites

OF THE MONTH

MASTER THE FIELD: ESSENTIAL DRILLS FOR PEAK PERFORMANCE

Double Triangle Passing Drill

SPECIFICATIONS

Colorways: 5

REDEFINING FOOTBALL PERFORMANCE

Unleash your game with the new Adidas Predator Elite: precision control, unmatched agility. Dominate the pitch with finesse and redefine your play. Top bins, here we come.

Studs: Firm ground, soft ground.

Who’s wearing them:

Jude Bellingham

Gabriel Jesus

Alessia Russo

View at Adidas UK View at Amazon

REASONS TO BUY

+ They look slick

+ Instantly comfortable

+ Lightest Adidas Predator ever made

REASONS to steer clear

+ Unsuitable for wide feet due to the narrow forefoot.

IS THE FALSE 9

THE TOUGHEST ROLE IN FOOTBAL

The False Nine, often hailed as a tactical marvel, revolutionises the traditional setup with its strategic ingenuity. In this Months Talking Tactics, we ask, is the False Nine the toughest position in football?

Positioned as a lone striker, the False Nine operates deeper than a conventional forward, drifting into midfield to create numerical superiority and disrupt the opponent’s defensive structure.

This formation thrives on fluidity and unpredictability, confounding defenders with its dynamic movement and incisive passing. By dropping into midfield, the False Nine becomes a playmaker, orchestrating attacks and exploiting gaps in the opposition’s defence.

Popularised by legendary players like Lionel Messi and Francesco Totti, the False Nine embodies versatility and intelligence on the pitch. Its success hinges on the ability of the surrounding players to adapt and capitalise on the space created by the roaming striker.

While challenging to master, the False Nine offers teams a potent weapon against rigid defensive setups, unlocking new dimensions of creativity and attacking prowess. As football evolves, the False Nine continues to captivate fans and inspire coaches with its innovative approach to the beautiful game - making it, for us anyway, the toughest role in football. CLICK HERE

7 of the best False Nines

1. Lionel Messi

2. Roberto Baggio

3. Kevin de Bruyne

4. Johan Cruyff

5. Thomas Muller

How does it look?

6. Dennis Bergkamp

7. Francesco Totti

Johan Cruyff

In Northern Ireland, grassroots girls’ football has become more than just a sport; it’s a symbol of empowerment, equality, and community development.

THE

RISE OF GRASSROOTS GIRLS’ FOOTBALL

Historically, football in Northern Ireland has been dominated by men, with limited opportunities for girls to participate. However, in recent years, there has been a significant shift in attitudes, thanks in part to the tireless efforts of local clubs, schools, and community organizations. These entities have recognised the importance of providing girls with access to football, not only as a means of physical activity but also as a tool for personal growth and empowerment.

One of the driving forces behind the growth of grassroots girls’ football in Northern Ireland is the emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility. Many clubs and organis ations have made concerted efforts to break down barriers that have traditionally prevented girls from participating in the sport. This includes providing affordable or free coaching sessions, establishing girls-only teams, and promoting a welcoming and supportive environment for players of all skill levels.

Furthermore, the success of the Northern Ireland women’s national team on the international stage has inspired a new generation of female footballers. Young girls across the country now have role models to look up to and aspire to emulate, fuelling their passion for the sport and driving increased participation at the grassroots level.

In addition to the social and cultural impact, grassroots girls’ football also has tangible benefits for participants. Engaging in regular physical activity promotes overall health and well-being, helping to combat issues such as obesity and mental health problems. Moreover, football fosters important life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and resilience, which are invaluable both on and off the pitch.

One of the most significant challenges facing grassroots girls’ football in Northern Ireland is the lack of resources and funding. Many clubs and organisations operate on shoestring budgets, relying heavily on volunteers and community support to keep programs running. Without adequate financial support, it can be difficult to provide girls with the facilities, equipment, and coaching they need to thrive.

Despite these challenges, the future of grassroots girls’ football in Northern Ireland looks bright. The continued dedication and passion of players, coaches, and supporters are driving positive change and laying the foundation for a more inclusive and equitable footballing landscape. With increased investment and support from government agencies, corporate sponsors, and the wider community, the potential for growth and success is limitless.

Ultimately, grassroots girls’ football in Northern Ireland is about more than just kicking a ball around; it’s about empowerment, opportunity, and community. By providing girls with access to the beautiful game, we are not only nurturing the next generation of footballing talent but also fostering a more inclusive and equal society for all. As the movement continues to gather momentum, the impact of grassroots girls’ football will be felt far beyond the confines of the pitch, shaping the lives of young girls and their communities for years to come.

football fosters important life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and resilience, which are invaluable both on and off the pitch.

DRINK WATER,

Sports nutrition plays a vital role in the performance, growth, and overall well-being of young athletes. Proper nutrition not only fuels their bodies for optimal performance but also supports their growth and development. As part of our well being feature, every issue we’ll be bringing you some essential pieces of advice for young athletes to ensure they are getting the most out of their nutrition. This issue we’ll be focusing on: Hydration.

PLAY BETTER

Hydration stands as a cornerstone of performance and well-being for young footballers in Northern Ireland, where the sport holds cultural significance and competitive fervor. The demanding nature of football, coupled with Northern Ireland’s variable climate, accentuates the need for meticulous attention to hydration to ensure optimal athletic output and safeguard against health risks.

Football is renowned for its high-intensity bursts of activity, requiring players to exhibit agility, endurance, and mental sharpness throughout matches and training sessions. Adequate hydration is paramount to sustain these exertions, as dehydration can impair physical performance, leading to decreased stamina, muscle cramps, and diminished cognitive function.

Northern Ireland’s climate presents hydration challenges, with fluctuating weather conditions ranging from cool, damp days to sweltering heatwaves during the summer months. In such conditions, maintaining proper fluid balance becomes essential to regulate body temperature and mitigate the risk of heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Hydration is not solely crucial during football activities but also in the pre- and post-match phases. Pre-game hydration primes young footballers for optimal performance, while postgame rehydration aids in replenishing lost fluids and facilitating muscle recovery, minimizing the risk of injury and expediting recovery.

Effective hydration strategies encompass both the frequency and quality of fluid intake. Encouraging young footballers to consume water regularly throughout the day, rather than solely during training or matches, helps maintain hydration levels and supports overall health. Additionally, promoting the consumption of electrolyte-rich fluids, such as sports drinks or coconut water, can aid in replenishing lost minerals and optimizing hydration status, particularly during prolonged or intense exercise sessions.

Coaches, parents, and sports organisations play pivotal roles in fostering a culture of hydration awareness among young footballers. Providing access to clean, safe drinking water during training sessions and matches, educating players on the signs and consequences of dehydration, and integrating hydration protocols into training regimens are essential steps toward nurturing healthy hydration habits.

CONCLUSION...

...prioritising hydration is paramount for young footballers in Northern Ireland to excel in their sport while safeguarding their health and well-being. By instilling a proactive approach to hydration management, young athletes can optimise their performance, enhance their resilience to environmental challenges, and lay the foundation for long-term athletic success.

Encouraging young footballers to consume water regularly throughout the day, rather than solely during training or matches, helps maintain hydration levels and supports overall health.

KIT DESIGN GIVE AWAY

Are you ready to let your creative juices flow? Do you fancy a an ice cream on us?

In this month’s issue of XG, we are giving away, to the lucky winner in each age category the chance to WIN a £10 voucher to Al Gelato, home to Belfast’s finest homemade gelato.

This competition has two age categories:

5 - 9 years old 9 - 13 years old

It will require skill, imagination and thought but most important of all, it will be LOADS of fun. Crayons at the ready and let’s see all those amazing kit designs.

The competition closes at 5pm on Monday 25 June 2024, winners will be contacted via email after the competition close date.

All competition winners will be announced online at www.xgmagni.com and through our social media channels once judging is complete.

TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE OF WINNING THIS delicious PRIZE, simply SNAP A PHOTO OF YOUR CREATION and send it TO us. Get designing before the ice cream melts!

IRISH FA SAFEGUARDING COURSE

The Irish FA Safeguarding Course provides essential training to ensure the safety and well-being of all involved in football, particularly children and vulnerable individuals. Through comprehensive modules, participants learn about safeguarding policies, recognizing signs of abuse, and appropriate reporting procedures.

This vital education empowers coaches, volunteers, and staff to create safe and inclusive environments where everyone can enjoy the game without fear of

MINI SHIN PADS

harm. By prioritising safeguarding, the Irish FA demonstrates its commitment to promoting a culture of protection and accountability within football, safeguarding the welfare of participants and upholding the integrity of the sport.

For any further information please contact Kevin Doyle, Safeguarding Service Delivery Manager. Email: Kevin.doyle@irishfa.com Tel: 02890 669458 / 07889057992

The increasing majority of grassroots clubs around the country are deciding to ban mini shin pads for safety reasons.

The reason being that there are worries, especially at grassroots level, smaller pads don’t cover the shins properly and could increase the risk of injury.

At the moment football rules say that all players must wear shin pads - there is nothing in the rule book to say what size they actually should be.

THE TROUBLES KICKING

From growing up in a war zone to befriending the greatest football manager in the history of the game, John White’s story is remarkable. Life in Northern Ireland in the 1970s was tough but the prospects for John, a Catholic raised in the Short Strand area of Belfast, were even more restricted.

Shining through the darkness was George Best; the greatest player in the world regularly turned out for the national team in the most infamous city in the world at the height of The Troubles and it was logical to follow Manchester United’s fortunes and before long John had joined the fortnightly exodus from both sides of the community to Old Trafford.

�John is a dedicated Red who has brought both sides of the community together in Northern Ireland.�

- DAVID GILL

Later, John founded Carryduff Manchester United Supporters’ Club, with the express aim of uniting Catholics and Protestants and their shared passion for United. It was in this role that he befriended many United legends, foremost among them the Boss, Sir Alex Ferguson. Later, John helped promote The Elizabeth Hardie Ferguson Charitable Trust Fund, named after Sir Alex’s late mother.

STERLING INSURANCE PARTNERS WITH SUPERCUPNI IN MULTI-YEAR AGREEMENT

Leading UK insurance broker announces three-year partnership with SuperCupNI

Sterling Insurance, one of the UK’s leading insurance brokers, has announced a new three-year partnership with one of the world’s most renowned international youth football tournaments.

The UK-based insurance broker will kick-off a multi-year tournament partnership with the SuperCupNI this summer with high-profile clubs like Manchester United, West Ham United, Celtic and Rangers set to visit Northern Ireland for theweek-long event.

The 2024 SuperCupNI, celebrating its 41st year, will attract over 50,000 visitors and up to 2,500 participants as young players, families, friends and football fans from all over the world attend the tournament.

The SuperCupNI is synonymous with Northern Ireland and brings so much joy and positivity to the country and we're excited to be part of that, starting this summer.

The annual youth football tournament, taking place from Sunday 21st to Friday 26th July, will feature elite girls’ and boys’ teams from around the world competing in a week of matches across multiple age groups to be crowned the 2024 SuperCupNI champions.

Sterling has over 30 years’ experience. It provides insurance and solutions for the drivers of Northern Ireland. They provide cover for all of life’s journeys including those involving young drivers, classic car motorists and van owners.

This long-term partnership with the SuperCupNI is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to nurturing the sporting talents of young individuals and promoting the health and wellbeing of communities across Northern Ireland.

Andy Morton, General Manager at Sterling Insurance, said: “We feel proud, and privileged, to have agreed a three-year association with one of the world’s most respected youth football tournaments.

“The SuperCupNI is synonymous with Northern Ireland and brings so much joy and positivity to the country and we’re excited to be part of that, starting this summer.

“Sterling Insurance is here to support the organisers, provide some backing and bring in a few touches that can hopefully add something a little new

to the week. We want to enhance the experience where we can and help make more memories.

“There are lots of exciting ideas in the pipeline that we hope to unveil in the coming weeks as we look to give something back and provide an extra platform for the players, organisers and local community.”

Victor Leonard, Chairperson of the SuperCupNI added: “We’re delighted to welcome Sterling Insurance on board as a key tournament partner for the next three years. It’s another exciting partnership for SuperCupNI as we prepare for what promises to be an exceptional 2024 tournament.

“We look forward to working closely with Sterling Insurance over the next three years to deliver a collaborative and dynamic partnership that will not only benefit and grow the tournament but help the UK-based insurance broker expand its local presence and customer footprint and make a positive impact on communities and youth football in Northern Ireland.”

The 2024 SuperCupNI will feature over 60 teams across five age groups (male and female) at venues across Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.

It will kick off with its traditional opening parade and opening ceremony on Sunday 21st July with Finals Day taking place on Friday 26th July.

For more information on the SuperCupNI visit www.supercupni.com.

• Pictured launching the partnership is Northern Ireland football legend Aaron Hughes alongside Victor Leonard, Chairperson of the SuperCupNI and Andy Morton, General Manager at Sterling Insurance.

FOOTBALL TRIVIA

THINK YOU KNOW THE GAME? TIME TO TEST YOUR FOOTBALL KNOWLEDGE. SETTLE DOWN AS WE BRING YOU THE FIRST OF OUR FOOTBALL TRIVIA QUIZZES.

01What number shirt did Ronaldo wear during his break-through year with Sporting Lisbon?

02Which one of these Liverpool players has NEVER won the Premier League Golden Boot?

03

Roberto Martinez has managed Swansea, Wigan and Everton in England. What nationality is he?

04

What national team did Villa legend George Boateng represent?

05In 2003, which Tottenham player famously ‘scored’ with a 55-yard shot against Manchester United that was judged to be not over the line?

06Who won Best Young Player at World Cup 2002?

07

Which famous Irish left-back made 167 appearances for Oldham before he left to join Manchester United?

08Which manager has won the most FA Cups?

09

Former Celtic legend John Hartson earned 51 caps for which country?

10Which Arsenal player scored the league winning goal at Old Trafford in 2002?