Story added: 6th February 2026

Schools come together for memorable Girls United tournament

Firside Junior School were crowned champions of the Girls United Under 11 Schools League at The Nest after a tense run that saw both their semi-final and final decided on penalties. They will now represent Norwich City in the next stage of the Premier League Primary Stars Football Tournament in Colchester later this month. 

Our Girls United Schools League brought together 17 schools and 136 participants, offering girls from across Norfolk the chance to play competitive football on three matchdays in a supportive setting. The tournament forms part of the Foundation’s schools competitions programme, which gives pupils opportunities to represent their school, build confidence and stay active. 

The tournament also provided an opportunity for the Foundation’s Football & Education students with a fantastic learning experience of helping to run and officiate the fixtures. Five Norwich City Women’s players also made guest appearances throughout the tournament – Sarah Quantrill, Eloise King, Olivia Cook, Ellie Bishop and Freya Symonds. 

Schools spoke warmly about the impact of the league. Mr Allen, Headteacher at Mile Cross Primary School, said the competition had “a hugely positive impact on both the girls involved and the wider school community,” adding that the players had grown in confidence and resilience and that the league helped raise the profile of girls sport across the school. 

Reepham Primary School, winners of the Fair Play Award, also reflected on a memorable experience. Miss Saunders, PE Lead, said the girls “thoroughly enjoyed taking part,” valued the chance to play a range of teams and were “absolutely delighted to win the Fair Play Award overall.” She added that the girls were proud of themselves and grateful for the ten Norwich City tickets that came with the award. 

 Firside’s PE Lead, Mr Strowger, praised his team for embracing the school’s values throughout the competition. He said: “we are very proud of the girls for working hard as a team. They feel extremely proud about what they have achieved and are excited to represent Norwich and Firside in Colchester next week.” 

Players themselves summed up the spirit of the event. Harper and Ellie-Mae from Harleston Sancroft Academy said: “all the players performed at their very best and demonstrated fantastic sportsmanship throughout. This is exactly why we love girls football.” 

 Firside Junior now look ahead to the Premier League Primary Stars regional finals, where they will join schools from across the East of England as they compete for a place at the national finals later this year.