“I love being with my friends and playing football”: teams revel in Fair Play Football tournament

On Friday, 17 January, teams from Centre 4, West Marsh Community Hub, YMCA and Immingham Oasis Academy played a number of matches, supported by North East Lincolnshire Council Safer Towns and Communities Service area, the Violence Prevention Partnership (VPP) and Grimsby Town Foundation.

Funded via the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Humberside, each organisation delivers weekly sessions with tournaments held on a quarterly basis as part of the Fair Play Football initiative.

Also in attendance was the North East Lincolnshire Young and Safe targeted youth work team who disseminated positive engagement and learning.

The scheme is open to boys and girls age 12 to 19 and is delivered by community led organisations in key areas of the borough. this includes Fusion, the Trin, YMCA, West March Community Centre, Immingham Oasis Academy and Grimsby Town Sports and Educational Trust.

It aims to provide a cost-free opportunity for the younger generation who are signposted via their local schools, the Youth Justice System, Young People’s Support Service and more importantly by their peer groups.

After a tense final, Immingham Oasis Academy 4 were crowned champions of the third event. Those competing said they “love being with friends and playing football”.

Hannah Bowen, Operations Manager at Oasis Academy Immingham, said: “Young football enthusiasts in Immingham have been thriving thanks to the Fair Play Football sessions, proudly funded by Humber VPP and delivered by the Grimsby Town Foundation.

“On Friday evening, the programme’s 14–16 age group showcased their talent and teamwork by emerging victorious in this local tournament, held at Ladysmith Road.”

She added: “This initiative provides young people with a safe and inclusive space to develop their football skills, build confidence, and foster friendships. Beyond the pitch, the sessions encourage discipline, teamwork, and positive mental health, offering a vital opportunity for personal growth and community engagement.

“Humber VPP's support highlights the power of local partnerships in creating opportunities for young people to succeed both on and off the field. Together, the programme continues to inspire the next generation of players, proving that fair play always wins.”

Councillor Ron Shepherd, Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, said: “These tournaments are a great way for the younger generation to express themselves in a fun and safe environment.

“Giving the youth facilities and amenities is a key target of our Council. They are the future of this borough and we want to help them in any we can.

“Initiatives like this are also aiding the reduction of youth anti-social behaviour (ASB). In areas like Grimsby town centre, we have seen a reduction of 14% in the last 12 months for youth related ASB, which is a hugely positive stride.”