It began with a simple love of the game. For 36 teenage boys from all four corners of County Fermanagh, a five-week summer programme promised sport and competition. What it delivered was new friendships by breaking down barriers.
The "Fermanagh United" project, delivered by the County Fermanagh SuperCupNI Association and proudly supported by the Community Relations Council (CRC) through its CR/CD Small Grants Scheme, proved the power of football to unite.
"Funding from CR/CD has enabled teenage boys from all four corners of Fermanagh to unite together through a love of sport," said William Gamble, County Fermanagh SuperCupNI Association, capturing the essence of the initiative.
Over the course of five weeks, participants worked together on the sports field, where on-pitch sessions were used as a vehicle to foster teamwork and communication from an early stage. This provided a natural and immediate way for the young people to "leave stereotypes at the door" and embrace a more inclusive environment.
Beyond the field, the project included a series of engaging workshops designed to tackle sensitive issues directly. These sessions created a safe space for open dialogue on topics such as flags, emblems, sectarianism, and prejudice. By exploring the deeper meanings of these issues, participants were empowered to develop better knowledge and understanding, transforming them into more open-minded young role models.
The program culminated in a residential phase on the North Coast, a highlight that went beyond sport. This period of greater contact time helped cement the friendships forged throughout the programme, turning teammates into a close-knit group.
"The boys also got a chance to learn more about each other, where they come from and the role good relations plays through sport and football," Gamble said. "We hope our role models now go out into their communities and schools and positively influence their peers and others."
This successful project is a testament to the belief that sport can be a catalyst for change. The Community Relations Council is delighted to have played a key role in empowering this new generation of young leaders to build a more inclusive future for Fermanagh.