The Strive World Cup Tournament was held last week in Melvin Complex Strabane, bringing together young people from across the country in a vibrant celebration of inclusion, diversity, and community. This event was not just a football tournament but a cross-border, cross-community, cross-cultural, and cross-programme initiative that embodies the true spirit of a modern, inclusive Northern Ireland.
Strive is supported by the PEACEPLUS Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
Strive is a youth-led youth work programme that engages young people in a transformative process, focusing on five core strands: good relations, citizenship, personal development, employability, and positive progression. The programme is led by Include Youth in partnership with Northern Ireland Alternatives, Newstart Education Centre, Youth Initiatives and Lifford Clonleigh Resource Centre.
“Include Youth is incredibly proud to lead today’s event alongside our programme partners. Through sport we are bringing young people together from communities across the country. It is an opportunity for young people to enjoy sport together, gain new experiences and make new friends. The PEACEPLUS programme has provided the Strive project the opportunity to invest in the future of society and today is a great example of that.”
Throughout the day, twenty-one 5-a-side teams made up of young people from a wide range of backgrounds stepped onto the pitch to play, connect, and most importantly- have fun. Meanwhile, those not taking part in the matches brought the sidelines to life, cheering on their peers, showing support, and sharing in the vibrant, uplifting atmosphere of a day rooted in unity and celebration.
As the day ended, excitement peaked with the presentation of the tournament trophy. The crowd cheered across the pitch as New Zealand from Deele College in Raphoe- who take part in Strive through Include Youth in Lifford- proudly lifted the cup. It was not just a celebration of victory, but a symbol of everything the day stood for: teamwork, friendship, resilience, and respect. It was a powerful moment that brought everyone together, regardless of the scoreboards, reminding us that the real win was the shared experience and community building that had taken place.
The tournament was a shining example of how the Strive programme continues to bring young people together, breaking down barriers and fostering meaningful connections across communities in Northern Ireland and the border counties.
“This event isn't just about sport. It’s about building bridges, creating connections, and showing what’s possible when we come together with a shared purpose. These young people are the future of our country, and they are showing us how to lead with empathy, resilience, and hope." “Seeing young people from such varied backgrounds play side by side – and cheer each other on- is what this is all about. It shows the real heart of our communities." ”
