IN PICTURES: Success in prestigious Barcelona football tournament for Portrush youth team

The Portrush FC Youths 2013 football team took part in the prestigious Barcelona Cup and went on to win the final in their section.

The tournament brought together teams from across Europe, offering the young players a chance to test themselves against international opposition and experience football on a global stage.

For the Portrush boys, it was more than just competition — it was an amazing adventure filled with team spirit, pride, and lifelong memories.

Team coaches Paul Mackay , Mark Roberts, John Hynes and parents spoke proudly of the experience, describing it as “a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” that showed the players’ dedication both on and off the pitch.

The journey to Barcelona was made possible through months of community fundraising and generous local business sponsorships. Support poured in from all corners of Portrush, with events including a quiz night in The Quays Bar, cinema and pool nights in Kiwis Portrush, football fundraisers in Score and around the town, bucket collections in Asda, and a coffee morning in St Patrick’s Hall.

The team also received fantastic backing from local businesses who sponsored the trip, providing match kits, training gear, and financial support. Special thanks go to Exorna Kitchens, JKC, Fullerton Arms, Roasted, The Barber Hut, Kiwis, Eventsec, North Finance, Causeway Sports Academy,Troggs Surf Shop, Bob & Berts, Coastal Blinds, North Coast Property, Fidela Coffee and White Cottages.

A club spokesperson said: “Their generosity and community spirit ensured the team could proudly represent Portrush on the international stage.”

Reflecting on the achievement, team coach Paul Mackay said: “It was an unbelievable experience for the boys - the trip was amazing and to win their section and come home as champions made all the hard work worthwhile.

"The memories from that trip will stay with them forever. We’re so proud of all of the boys. They represented Portrush and did the town proud!

"The Portrush 2013 Barcelona Cup victory remains a shining chapter in the club’s history – a story of teamwork, determination, and the power of community support.”