THE prestigious University of Ulster Foyle Cup, which takes place later this month, will be launched this afternoon, (Wednesday) in Magee, with former Manchester United defender David May guest of honour.
May, who when at Old Trafford won three Premiership titles, two FA Cup's and was also part of the historic treble winning squad of 1999, is an ideal man to launch this year's competition according to tournament chairman Michael Hutton.
"Firstly we a
re thrilled to have someone of David May's stature to come over and launch the University of Ulster Foyle Cup today, as he's been there and done that," said Hutton.
"David also had to bide his time at Manchester United before getting established in their side and because of that I feel he's the perfect example to all the young players who'll be taking part in this year's competition.
"We know that there will be a host of scouts and managers from across Europe who'll be visiting the North West later this month for the competition, and hopefully all the players taking part, especially the local ones can attract their attention."
The tournament, which has 114 teams competiting this year will take place in Londonderry, Strabane and Limavady Council areas and surrounding areas from the 21st to 26th July.
Hutton also feels that probably this year more than any other year, senior clubs throughout the country, North and South are starting to pay more attention to their youth teams and are sending more sides to the annual tournament.
"Each year, the international appeal of the Foyle Cup is witnessed more and more as teams from far and beyond British shores travel to Derry to compete in the event - from France, Holland, Germany, Hungary, Canada and America - teams of the calibre of Werder Bremen, Ferencvaros, Hull City, Hearts and Aberdeen, to name but a few," he said.
"But what is even more pleasing about the growth of the Foyle Cup is that more and more of our senior clubs recognise the opportunity being afforded them to prepare young players from their club to compete against top class opposition.
"These players are not simply being assembled to play in a tournament but are reaping the benefits of many years of involvement and preparation put in by their coaches at their Senior clubs.
"This year we have the likes of Linfield, Glentoran, Derry City, Institute, Glenavon, Limavady United, Dundalk and many more, which is very pleasing."
More details regarding this year's event can be viewed on tournament website www.foylecup.com.
The full article contains 460 words and appears in Londonderry Sentinel newspaper.
