Over 1,000 Athletes Compete In Kickstart Cup
More than 1,000 young athletes participated in the inaugural Athene Youth Kickstart Cup, held September 26–28.
A spokesperson said, “Over 1,000 young athletes took the field for the first-ever Athene Youth Kickstart Cup Sept. 26-28, where international stars helped make Bermuda’s newest youth tournament an unforgettable event.
“Leslie ‘Tiger’ Fitzpatrick, former Trinidad & Tobago national team player and current Head of Pro Player Pathway at the New York Red Bulls, delivered opening remarks during Friday’s ceremony, led a skills session and spent time meeting players, coaches and families. Bermuda’s own professional footballer, Nahki Wells, shared a message welcoming attendees and contributed signed merchandise for players to receive throughout the tournament. Ross Embleton, Head of Talent ID at West Ham United Football Club, also delivered remarks to inspire the players, presented trophies to the winning teams and connected with Bermuda’s football community.
“The competition was held at the National Sports Centre and was open to boys’ and girls’ teams in the U7, U9 and U11 divisions.
“The tournament kicked off with a team parade and gombey performance, emceed by Patrina O’Connor-Paynter. Families enjoyed food vendors, a photo booth, and a kid-friendly activity zone with bouncy castles.”
“We are proud of the success of the first Athene Youth Kickstart Cup,” said Natasha Scotland Courcy, CEO and General Counsel of Athene Life Re. “Football has always united people in Bermuda, and it was inspiring to see thousands from across our community come together this past weekend. We are excited for next year!”
The spokesperson said, “Winners were crowned in each division:
- U7 boys: Boulevard Blazers
- U7 girls: Warwick Football Academy
- U9 boys: Dandy Town Hornets
- U9 girls: Warwick Football Academy Napoli
- U11 boys: Junior Kix Stars White
- U11 girls: Warwick Football Academy Manchester
“Each first-place and second-place team took home trophies and medals for their performances.
“The Athene Youth Kickstart Cup was managed in partnership with Footy Promotions.
“For more information about Athene, please visit www.athene.com.”
