Here’s what County in the Community has been up to this week! From exciting football fixtures and training sessions to educational events and community outreach, it’s been a busy and rewarding time for our students and staff. With competitive matches, special guest sessions, and the opportunity to support upcoming FAW Pro Licence coaches, our programme has offered valuable experiences for everyone involved. Read on to see the highlights of our week, including our impressive league win, a thrilling girls' football tournament, and engaging school visits!
COLLEGE PROGRAMME
This week, the County in the Community Football & Education programme had a packed schedule, including training sessions, a CEFA (Community Education & Football Alliance) League fixture, academic commitments, and an exciting opportunity to assist the FAW with their Pro Licence candidates.
Following last Wednesday's defeat to Exeter City C in the EFL CEFA League Cup, this week’s sessions focused on reflection and improvement, allowing the students to enhance their gameplay and develop as a team. In the Wednesday CEFA League fixture, the programme faced Exeter City D and emerged victorious with a 6-0 win, showcasing impressive football and strong individual performances.
On Friday afternoon, our students were privileged to attend a session at Dragon Park led by former professional footballers, supporting their UEFA A Licence development. They had the chance to meet Kenneth Zohore, Robbie Savage, Anthony Gerrard, Djibril Cissé, and Adam Matthews.
Overall, it was a fantastic week for our students! If you're in Year 11 and interested in joining the programme next September, our first open evening is on Thursday, 21st November, from 5 pm to 6 pm at Llanwern High School. To reserve a place, please email: elliot.matthews@countyinthecommunity.co.uk.
PREMIER LEAGUE PRIMARY STARS – GIRLS’ CUP
This week, we hosted over 150 girls in Newport for the Premier League Primary Stars Girls' Cup. The tournament brought together girls from 18 primary schools across Southeast Wales, each competing to become regional champions.
While the matches were highly competitive, the girls also aimed to win the Fair Play award, which could only be achieved if other teams noted their school's name on the fair play board. This was awarded to teams demonstrating #PLPrimaryStars values: #BeFair, #BeAmbitious, #BeConnected, and #BeInspiring.
At 11 am, we held a moment of silence to honour those who served for our country.
The day concluded with an exciting final between Lliswerry Primary and Llantarnam Primary, with Lliswerry Primary emerging as champions. They will go on to represent Newport County at the Southwest Regional Tournament in Swindon after Christmas.
New Inn Primary School won the Fair Play award for their exceptional sportsmanship, recognised by other teams throughout the tournament.
A huge thank you to Newport County AFC first-team players Jacob Carney and Joe Thomas for attending, presenting the Fair Play award, and awarding the tournament trophy to the winners. We also extend our gratitude to all schools that attended, including those who travelled from afar, like Oakdale and Chepstow, demonstrating their dedication to girls' football.
FAN ENGAGEMENT
Look out for us at Newport County’s home games! We’ll be in the marquee before the match, offering activities such as table football, colouring, table tennis, and Connect Four. Don’t miss your chance to join in – you might even get to meet SPYTTY the dog and Newport County players!
SCHOOLS
On Tuesday, we visited Penygarn Primary School to speak with Year Five students about Newport County’s history. The pupils also had the opportunity to receive one of 40 FREE tickets to Saturday’s game against Grimsby. The students were enthusiastic and fully engaged throughout the visit.
