Plas Madoc Leisure Centre played host to a landmark moment for Welsh sport and community development last month. The Cefn District witnessed the first-ever All-Girls Schools Futsal Tournament – an inspiring initiative driven by the #StayOnSide project and supported by PACT funding.
A Collaborative Effort
A collaborative effort between Cefn Community Council, North Wales Police, and dedicated local schools were instrumental in the successful launch of the tournament, designed to encourage positive activity, reduce anti-social behaviour, and empower young girls through sport.
The event saw teams from Ysgol Acrefair, Ysgol Rhosymedre, Ysgol Cefn Mawr, Ysgol Min-Y-Ddol, and schools within the Dee Valley Federation competing in a spirited day of futsal action. In the end, it was Ysgol Acrefair that lifted the historic first-ever trophy, marking a proud achievement for the school and setting a high bar for future tournaments.
Mr Phil Vaughan, Chairman of Cefn Community Council, presented the trophy. He said, “This is more than just a competition – this is history in the making for Cefn. To see these young girls take centre stage in sport, supported by their schools and community, is nothing short of inspirational. We are proud to be part of a moment that will leave a lasting legacy.”
A Powerful Tool
The competition was the vision of Community Development Officer Andrew Ruscoe. He came up with the concept and worked closely with partners to make it a reality. He said, “This tournament is about creating opportunity, raising aspirations, and using sport as a powerful tool for community cohesion. Cefn has shown what we can achieve when we all work together with purpose and belief.”
Integral to the success of the event was PCSO Lara Shiers and her tireless, behind-the-scenes work. Her dedication exemplified the partnership spirit that underpinned the project.
The tournament was a flagship event under the broader #StayOnSide initiative. This is an ongoing programme designed to tackle and reduce anti-social behaviour in local communities. It engages young people through sport and positive role models.
The success of this event marks just the beginning for girls’ futsal in the region. Plans are already underway for future tournaments, thanks to the momentum of this historic day in the Cefn District.
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