Windhill21 were crowned girls’ Years 5-6 champions for the first time when Kitteridge All Sports and Manuden Junior Football Club held its annual festivals featuring more than 250 children from primary school teams in the Bishop’s Stortford area.
They got the better of Thorn Grove on penalties in the final to spark wild celebrations at Manuden Community Centre.
Also claiming glory were Northgate and Thorley Hill as they won the tournaments for Years 3-4 and 5-6 respectively.
The girls’ event featured 12 teams, with eight emerging from the group stages to compete in quarter-finals.
Windhill21 and Thorn Grove ultimately advanced to the final and both teams played with exceptional skill and determination.
The destination of the trophy had to be decided on spot kicks and Windhill21 held their nerve to claim the silverware.
KAS coach Ross Kitteridge said the success of the girls’ tournament underlines the growing popularity of women’s football in the community.
“Events like these not only provide a platform for young talent to shine, but also foster a sense of community and camaraderie,” he added.
There were also half a dozen teams going for glory in the Years 3-4 competition and the final pitted Northgate against Summercroft.
And Northgate produced a stellar display to secure a 3-0 victory.
In the Years 5-6 event, which featured 14 sides, a new champion was crowned as KAS Gold League finalists Northgate and St Joseph’s were knocked out in the quarter- and semi-finals.
It was Thorley Hill, propelled by stand-out performer Louie, who bagged the title with a 2-0 win in the final.
“It’s heartening to see the passion and dedication of these young athletes,” said Kitteridge. “Events like these not only promote physical activity, but also instil valuable lessons of teamwork, resilience and sportsmanship.”