The annual Liam Jinks Cup Walking Football Festival once again brought together football lovers of all ages.
The event hosted two competitions, a men’s and a women’s event.
With an overall satisfaction rating of 9.6 out of 10, it’s clear the event organisers, volunteers, and participating teams made the festival more than just a competition, it was a celebration of community.
Organised to honour of Liam Jinks, the event welcomed teams from across the region. This year, the Liam Jinks Cup was lauded for its smooth organisation, positive atmosphere, and inclusivity for all players, especially the female teams, who felt particularly welcomed. Players praised the thoughtful scheduling, timely matches, and ample parking, all of which contributed to an overall seamless experience.
“It’s just amazing to see football bringing everyone together. The power of this sport to build bridges and create joy is incredible,” shared one participant. “Everyone went home happy with a smile on their face and a medal to remember the day by.” Organisers made a point to recognise each player, handing out medals to all participants, and trophies for the top teams, creating a sense of accomplishment for everyone involved.
Despite the warm praise, the feedback from attendees offered some great ideas to make future events even better. Many recommended adding a refreshment stand to provide snacks and drinks, which would not only enhance the experience for players and spectators but could also generate funds to support the club’s activities. Another popular suggestion was to adopt a real-time score display, perhaps with an app or a digital board, to keep everyone updated on team standings.
The Liam Jinks Cup’s organisers welcomed these suggestions with enthusiasm, committed to making each year’s event better than the last. “We want this to feel like a place where everyone belongs and where every player, no matter their experience or skill level, feels appreciated and valued,” shared Sophie Bartup, BIFC Chairwoman.
For those new to the event, the message was clear: the Liam Jinks Cup is more than a festival; it’s a community celebration where everyone—players, coaches, volunteers, and spectators comes together to honour the love of the game.
Looking ahead, many attendees expressed excitement about next year’s event, with some even envisioning the festival expanding into a full weekend of football and fun. As the event continues to grow, the spirit of camaraderie, inclusiveness, and respect is sure to flourish, making the Liam Jinks Cup a much-anticipated highlight on the community calendar for years to come.
In the words of one player, “The Liam Jinks Cup just gets better every year. It’s a special day that reminds us all why we love this game and what it means to be part of such an incredible community.”
You can download the full report here.
