CRT Game On Home Internationals 2025
Every summer, the CRT Game On Home Internationals brings young people from across the coalfields together for a weekend of football, friendship, and unforgettable experiences. It’s more than a tournament – it’s a chance to raise aspirations, build confidence, and create the kind of memories that last a lifetime.
This year, the event kicked off at Keele University on the 9th August before moving to the prestigious City Football Academy, home of Manchester City for the tournament on the 10th August. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many of the young players who took part.
Twelve teams took to the pitch including six boys’ teams from community-based sessions, and six grassroots community girls’ teams. Behind the scenes, the event was a joint effort by all three CRT Game On nations – England, Scotland, and Wales – with support from our partners Stoke City Community Trust, Dizzy Heights and Stoke-on-Trent City Council.
In total, 72 young people were involved, supported by 24 CRT staff and a team of dedicated chaperones and volunteers.
A Weekend to Remember
The football itself did not disappoint. On the boys’ side, the competition built towards an all-England final between Stoke Sky Balls 5ives and Sneyd FC 5ives. The game was played at a great pace with some excellent talent on show. In the end, Sneyd FC 5ives walked away as the 2025 champions.
For the girls, the final between Bo’ness United Community FC and Treforest FC was a tense, close game with only one goal separating the teams when the final whistle arrived. The goal went to Bo’ness who took the girl’s shield home to Scotland for the second year running.
The weekend wasn’t just about the matches. Saturday’s programme at Keele brought players together - breaking down barriers and forging friendships between young people who had never met before. By the time Sunday arrived, the sense of unity was clear both on and off the pitch.
After the tournament, the participants and chaperones enjoyed a tour of the Etihad Stadium – a perfect way to round off an inspiring weekend.
Impact Beyond the Pitch
The value of the CRT Game On Home Internationals goes far beyond trophies and results. For many of the players, it was their first time travelling outside their local community, staying away overnight, or stepping onto a professional standard pitch. The weekend helped build confidence, independence, and pride, as well as proving what’s possible when communities and partners come together.
The legacy of the event also stretches back into the communities themselves. Players return home with new motivation, volunteers come back inspired, and local CRT Game On sessions see the benefits of raised aspirations and stronger peer networks.
One of our dedicated volunteer chaperones summed up the weekend nicely:
“Thank you to all the CRT team for giving Llan Rangers girls a fantastic opportunity – every parent has text us to say the girls came home beaming!’
A participant reflected on their experience saying:
‘Even not winning the experience was brilliant and taking part in this has really built my confidence and my love for football even more.’
Find out more about CRT Game On here.
