Girls’ Football Takes Centre Stage at Stamford College’s AoC Tournament

Stamford College was excited to welcome colleges from the East Midlands for the Association of Colleges (AoC) Girls’ 7-a-side Football Tournament. The event brought together enthusiastic and talented players who were eager to represent their colleges and enjoy a day of competitive football. It was a fantastic opportunity for students to meet others from across the UK, share their passion for the game and take part in a memorable sporting occasion.

Reflecting on the event, Martin Gibson, Assistant Head of Faculty for Sport and Public Services, said: “It’s been great for Stamford College to host so many colleges from around the East Midlands Region showcasing girls’ football. Our Football Academy is a great route to take after GCSEs, so being able to compete alongside other colleges is a testament to our students’ skill, determination and the high-level coaching they receive while working towards their Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications.” 

The tournament was held at the impressive £13 million Borderville Sports Centre, which offered visiting teams access to top-quality pitches and modern training facilities that ensured everyone taking part had a great experience,on and off the pitch. As the home of Stamford College’s Football Academies, Borderville Sports Centre provides a professional environment that supports both performance and development. 

The day also showcased the achievements of Stamford College’s Girls Football Academy, an A Level equivalent course that blends football development with academic study. Led by UEFA-qualified coaches, the programme helps students improve their technical skills while also working towards a highly recognised Level 3 Sports qualification. It’s a great option for girls who enjoy the practical side of sport but also want to build their knowledge of coaching, performance and the wider sporting world.

Thank you to the Association of Colleges for the opportunity to host this fantastic event, and thank you to all the colleges who attended.