CRT Home Internationals 2026

For most young people, representing your country is something you dream about. 

For 72 children from coalfield communities across England, Scotland and Wales, that dream became a reality at the 2026 CRT Home Internationals. 

Over one unforgettable weekend, young people travelled from communities across the UK to compete, make new friends and experience opportunities that many never imagined possible. From playing at elite football facilities to touring the home of Manchester City, the CRT Home Internationals offered much more than a football tournament. It gave young people the chance to step outside their everyday lives and be part of something bigger. 

Of course, there was plenty at stake on the pitch. 

The tournament delivered tense competition throughout the weekend, culminating in two all-England finals. Dinnington 5ives Two lifted the boys' trophy, while Scawthorpe Scorpions Blue were crowned girls' champions after an impressive tournament run. 

But ask many of the players what they'll remember most and it won't necessarily be the trophies. It will be the teammates they travelled with, the new friendships they made and the experiences they shared. 

Throughout the weekend, young people spoke about meeting people from different communities, spending time with teammates and making memories that will stay with them long after the event finished. Coaches also highlighted the way the tournament brought people together, creating an atmosphere where young people quickly found common ground despite coming from different parts of the country.  

For many participants, simply having the chance to represent their nation was a source of huge pride. Others described the excitement of playing at Manchester City's training facilities, touring the Etihad Campus and competing in an environment normally reserved for elite athletes.  

Those opportunities matter. 

Through CRT Game On, the CRT Home Internationals are designed to do more than provide sporting competition. They create experiences that build confidence, encourage young people to try new things and help them realise what they are capable of achieving. 

The impact was clear throughout the weekend. Young people left feeling proud of what they had achieved, motivated to continue participating in sport and inspired by experiences that many had never had before. Feedback also showed how important the social side of the event was, with many participants highlighting new friendships and the chance to meet young people from other nations as one of the best parts of the weekend.  

As the players boarded coaches for the journey home, they took more than medals, trophies and photographs with them. They returned to their communities with new experiences, new friendships and memories that will last for years to come. 

And that is what the CRT Home Internationals are really about. 

Creating opportunities. Raising aspirations. And showing young people from coalfield communities that they belong on any stage. 

Find out more about CRT Game On and how we're helping young people develop through sport across Britain's coalfield communities.