On Sunday, 20th April, Bootham Girls’ Futsal Club travelled to Bradford to take part in the GWL United Easter Futsal Cup. The club entered three age groups, U12s, U14s, and U15s, into what proved to be a highly competitive tournament, featuring some very strong sides.

All matches were played over 20 minutes with a continuous clock, creating a fast-paced and intense playing environment. Despite the challenge, all three Bootham teams showed great spirit, teamwork, and resilience throughout the day, gaining valuable experience against top-level opposition.

U12s Competition

The U12s were represented by: Emily C, Naomi L, Lily N, Isabelle S, Maja G, Aoife M and Amelia H

U12s Game 01

Full Time – Bootham Futsal Club U12s 3 – Samba 3

U12s Game 02

Full Time – Bootham Futsal Club U12s 1 – Canning 4

U12s Game 03

Full Time – Bootham Futsal Club U12s 0 – TFC All Stars 7

U12s Game 04

Full Time – Bootham Futsal Club U12s 2 – Samba 5

U14s Competition

The U14s were represented by: Jean P, Jess H, Imogen B, Jessica W, Bonnie-Shai C, Maisie M, Maygen M, Ellie M and Kjra P.

U14s Game 01

Full Time – Bootham Futsal Club U14s 1 – COPFC 7

U14s Game 02

Unfortunately there is no video footage of this game, but goals from Imogen B x2, Maisie M and Jean P x2 saw them to a convincing win.

Full Time – Bootham Futsal Club U14s 5 – Samba 1

U14s Game 03

Full Time – Bootham Futsal Club U14s 1 – COPFC 7

U14s Game 04

Unfortunately there is no video footage of this game, but goals from Imogen B and Bonnie Shai C saw them put up a determined fight in their last game

Full Time – Bootham Futsal Club U14s 2 – Samba 5

U16s Competition

The U16s were represented by: Abbie D, Hannah B, Lacey B, Eleanor C, Mollie G, Hattie F, Erin E and Heidi J

U16s Game 01

Full Time – Bootham Futsal Club U16s 3 – COPFC 5

U16s Game 02

Full Time – Bootham Futsal Club U16s 1 – Canning 2

U16s Game 03

Full Time – Bootham Futsal Club U16s 2 – COPFC 1

U16s Game 04

Full Time – Bootham Futsal Club U16s 3 – Canning 1

After a full day of action, Coach Chris reflected on the team performances and the overall experience:

‘It’s always good to face different opposition, especially teams we don’t see very often, and today was one of those days. The level of futsal on display was superb across so many different teams and age groups. As a club and as individuals, we’ve learnt a lot.’

U12s – The U12s battled hard but found the physicality of the tournament a real challenge. Despite some bumps, bruises, and even a few tears, they showed great character and refused to give in. Their determination and resilience were praised by Coach Chris:

‘Huge credit to the team, they never gave up. This experience can only make them stronger, both individually and as a group.’

U14s – The U14s were dealt an early blow when goalkeeper Jess was injured in the first game. Despite the setback, the team pulled together, with multiple players stepping into goal throughout the day.

‘Massive credit to all the girls who went in goal—it really affected the team, but they never stopped working and played some fantastic futsal. Huge thank you to Maygen and Ellie for helping out, you were both brilliant.’

U16s – The U16s squad, which closely resembles the team heading to Italy later this year, had a tough start but bounced back in impressive fashion. After losing their first two games, they finished the day with two strong wins—including a standout victory over a very talented COPFC side.

‘They’ll know they could have won the event today, but to finish with two wins and show that kind of fight and quality is a great sign of their potential.’

Coach Chris closed by thanking the organisers and all who took part:

“A huge thank you to John at GWL United for organising such a great day. And thank you to all the teams who travelled from afar, we hope everyone got home safely.”