Exciting line-up for this year's Foyle Cup

Both players previously participated in the Foyle Cup tournament and spoke highly of the level of pleasure they had in competing and how it helped them immensely in their football careers.

In praising the competition organisers they highlighted the unique atmosphere that prevails throughout the week of competition and the large attendances at all the matches across the North West region.

This year's event will witness the largest ever entry in the eighteen year history of the event with 144 teams competing. The event will take place in Derry, Strabane and Limavady from July 19th July 24th.

The Foyle Cup which began as an eight team one day event in 1992 has now grown into one of the largest youth international soccer tournaments in Europe.

Tournament Chairman Michael Hutton in acknowledging the growth of the tournament expressed his delight that the event is still not only attracting a high quality of entry but an ever increasing entry of teams.

"When one thinks about the result the recession is having on spending power not just throughout Ireland and the UK but globally - it is remarkable to note that this year we will have our highest ever entry of teams – up from 128 teams in 2009 to 144 teams. "

Mr Hutton continued, "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. The good news that is the Foyle Cup travels far - this year alone we have five top quality teams travelling to compete from Canada and America.

"Added to this we have teams from all across Europe and the best that Britain can offer. Whilst this interest is immensely important and pleasing, what is even more gratifying is that more and more of our Senior Irish league and Eircom league 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 entries have been received from Derry City, Linfield, Glentoran, Dungannon Swifts, Limavady Utd, Larne, Institute, Crusaders, Cliftonville, Lisburn Distillery, Ballyclare, Armagh City, Ards , Finn Harps, Coleraine..

Mr Hutton continued: "There is no other event quite like the Foyle Cup in that it is a highly competitive tournament but at the same time a true sporting event in every respect.

"The teams competing over the years have commented on the quality of playing surface, the high level of organisation and the friendliness of the local people. Those involved in Hotel & B&B business do so much to heighten the profile of this event as they strive to ensure that every single person staying throughout the week experiences a True Derry City welcome."

Mr Hutton also acknowledged the importance of sponsorship to the event.

"I know we as an Association work extremely hard to make this event happen. To organise an event such as the Foyle Cup must take up an immeasurable amount of time, commitment and dedication, particularly when one considers that all the members of the organising committee do this on a voluntary basis but it would not be possible for it to take place without the generosity of our sponsors.

"In particular I wish to acknowledge the support afforded the event by our sponsors N.I.T.B, Derry City Council, Department for Social Development, Limavady Borough Council, Strabane District Council, Firmus Energy, Tesco and Derry Credit Union."

More details regarding this year's event can be viewed on tournament website www.foylecup.com