El Instituto de Mandevilla defend Junior Cup U11 title

DESPITE THE threat of rain, the Youth Football League (YFL) Junior Cup Under-11 Rural Competition went ahead smoothly and concluded in fine style on Saturday at the Kirkvine Sports Complex. The event crowned its fourth rural champion, with El Instituto de Mandevilla successfully defending their title to remain the top team in the region.

The tournament brought together schools from across central and western Jamaica, and it was especially encouraging to see the enthusiasm of first-time entrants Bartons Primary — who made the journey from St Catherine — and Fullerswood Primary, who travelled all the way from St Elizabeth to participate. Their involvement highlights the growing reach of the Junior Cup and the continued commitment of schools to grassroots football development.

Coach Andrew Ellison of Fullerswood Primary praised the organisation of the event and shared his appreciation for finally being part of the Junior Cup.

“Parents should encourage their children to participate in sports as it helps them learn from other students, teaches teamwork, and helps them to propel further into the future. It also helps them do better in their schoolwork, and develop interest in other areas as well,” said Ellison.

Tournament organiser and managing director of FYI Consultancy Group, Paula Pinnock, expressed gratitude for the seamless execution of the event, despite the weather concerns and last-minute challenges.

“We’re pleased that the tournament went off without any issues, despite the threat of rain and the late withdrawal of two regulars — Howard Cooke Primary and Corinaldi Avenue Primary, both scheduled to travel from Montego Bay. These kinds of late cancellations are unfortunate and remain a challenge that many organisers in Jamaica face. We hope that, over time, stakeholders, including schools, coaches, and principals, will understand how such disruptions affect planning and the wider mission of grassroots football, which plays a vital role in building discipline and character among our young players.”

Pinnock also shared that one of the most rewarding aspects of the day was the ‘Gears for Greatness’ initiative, which donates football gear to players in need.

“Seeing the smiles on the faces of the young players who received football boots and were then able to compete properly reminded us exactly why we do this — to give every child the chance to participate, grow, and shine,” she said.

From the rural competition, El Instituto de Mandevilla, Belair Prep, Holland Primary, Mineral Heights Primary, Fullerswood Primary, and Bartons Primary will move to the all-island finals on Saturday.

They will join the top six finishers from the urban competition, Sts Peter and Paul Prep, Balmagie Primary, Wolmer’s Prep, Creative Kids Learning Academy, Reach Academy, and Lannaman’s Prep.

The all-island finals will take place on Saturday at the Constant Spring Football Field, starting at 10 am. Admission: $1,000 for adults and $500 for children.

The awards presentation ceremony for all three competitions — urban, rural, and all-island — will be held immediately after the conclusion of the all-island finals.