The FAW’s chief football officer David Adams hopes the success of the 2024 Cymru Cup can help players follow in the footsteps of Charlie Crew and Jordan James.
Players involved in the tournament, which took place between Tuesday 23 and Wednesday 24 July, are part of the FAW’s regional programme, which is based in both north and south Wales. The programme consists of training days and matches across a two-year period, before concluding with the Cymru Cup competition.
And this year’s tournament saw 60 players in attendance who were representing Licensed FAW Academies in Wales, as well as talent selected from a number of clubs in the English football system.
Leeds United midfielder Charlie Crew and Birmingham City’s Jordan James are among some of the players who have previously featured in the tournament and gone on to win caps at senior level.
“The main purpose of the event is to showcase Cymru’s future potential talent and help shape our U15 team who meet for a training camp in August,” said Adams.
“80% of our men’s national team started in the regional programme which shows its importance. Players such as Charlie Crew and Jordan James were playing where these players are a few years ago, so it shows that there is a genuine opportunity for all players to move through the pathway.
“We also recognise the commitment from all the players and parents who have participated in the regional south and north programme over the last two seasons, and this event is a celebration of the end of this part of the player’s journey.
“We hope these players take away a sense of belonging to represent Cymru and have an understanding of the Welsh Way and its principles and values on and off the field.”
Cymru head coach Craig Bellamy was at the welcome meeting at the start of the two-day event before watching on from the sidelines at Colliers Park.
“We were delighted to have Craig Bellamy in attendance to speak to the parents and players and pass on his experiences.
“It shows how much we value the pathway and demonstrates Craig’s commitment to supporting these players.
“This gives the players belief that there is a genuine opportunity to move through the international youth pathway.”
While former Cymru captain Ashley Williams and defender Neil Taylor – two heroes of Cymru’s success at UEFA EURO 2016 – were also present during the competition.
“The importance of connecting former players to the youth programme is critical for us,” added Adams.
“The success of our 2016 team provides such incredible stories and memories that help us inspire the next generation to want to experience competing for Cymru in major tournaments.
“Ashley and Neil are incredible ambassadors to help with this connection and you could see what it meant to the players when they met them.”
Match photography
View photos of the 2024 Cymru Cup
