A Dutch of class! Jarrow youth football teams impress abroad

Jarrow Youth Under-13s celebrate winning their tournament.

Jarrow Youth Under-13s and Jarrow Pythons Under-10s travelled to Oisterwijk, in the Netherlands, to take part in a tournament.

They enjoyed a weekend in the country as they were able to sample another culture, as well as play the game they love.

The teams before they headed off to Holland.

The Under-13s won their competition in style, conceding just one goal on their route to success, while the Under-10s finished fourth in their group. Both played five games.

To fund the trip to Holland, a number of events were held, with £15,000 raised, while the teams were also sponsored by domestic door supplier JC Maintenance.

Car dealer company Vic Young also kitted the players and coaches out in hoodies, while restaurant Subway, at the Nook, provided packed lunches for all 86 players, coaches and parents who made the trip.

Kelly Hudson, the secretary of the Jarrow club, was delighted with how things went.

Jarrow Pythons Under-10s had their first experience of the tournament.

She said: “It went really well, and was an amazing experience for everyone.

“The place we stayed at said it was the best group they had ever had with supporters.

“The children had been really looking forward to it, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Everybody really loved it, and we’re already looking to return next year.

“Six of our Jarrow teams have now signed up for next year over there.”

The teams made the journey to Holland by ferry, and for the Under-13s, it was the third time they had made the trip.

There are now hopes that Dutch teams may be able to make a return journey to take on Jarrow on their home soil.

Mrs Hudson added: “This is the third time a Jarrow team has been over there, and last time, we played against teams from all over Europe.

“One of the things everyone is really touched by in the tournaments is that before the games, the players get to line up together while the national anthems are played.

“That’s a really good experience for the children, because it’s like they’re representing the country.

“To also get the chance to mix with children who might not speak English or are from other cultures is very important for them.”