The annual VRN Champions football tournament returned this month, bringing together Champions participants from across Lancashire for a full day of football hosted by Accrington Stanley Community Trust.
Teams from Blackburn Rovers Community Trust, Blackpool FC Community Trust, Burnley FC in the Community, Preston North End Community and Education Trust, Morecambe FC Community Foundation, Wigan Athletic Community Trust, AFC Fylde Community Foundation, and Accrington Stanley Community Trust took part. The tournament, organised by the Champions mentors and Violence Reduction Network team, is designed to give young people a reward for their dedication to the programme, and an opportunity for a positive day of teamwork, resilience, and fair play.
After a series of brilliant matches, it was Blackpool FC Community Trust who came out on top, taking home the Champions trophy following a series of close games.
The focus wasn’t just on results. The tournament stood out for the level of sportsmanship shown throughout, with players supporting each other, referees, and their opponents in a respectful and positive environment.
Chief Inspector Gemma Barr, Operational Lead for the Lancashire VRN, explained why these events are important: “We fund and support days like this because they create space for young people to build confidence, make connections, and see what’s possible when they work together. So many of our young people have made incredible progress through Champions this year that it’s wonderful to see them rewarded for their hard work. Positive interventions like this are ultimately how we help communities grow stronger and safer in the long term.”
A huge thank you to all the teams, mentors, schools, and supporters who helped make this day possible!
