Published: 24 May, 2012
by STEVE BARNETT

THE football season might be over but, far from winding down, organisers behind one of the biggest youth leagues in London have already set their sights on their next goal.

Members from the Camden and Regent’s Park Youth League are trying to find £7,000 to invite a group of 12 young footballers from Palestine to join them for training sessions and tournaments in July.

In all the 10-day tour will cost £20,000, but with £13,000 already in the bag the team is closing in on their target.

The next attempt to bridge the difference comes next Saturday (June 2) when they’re holding an under-11s tournament at Market Road in Islington.

League co-ordinator Will Cave said: “We were asked to support the project by the Camden Abu Dis Friendship Association in Kentish Town and we were keen to play a part because it’s a great opportunity for all the youngsters involved.

“The kids in Palestine will get the chance to come over and share their love of football, and the kids from Camden and Islington will have a great chance to broaden their horizons and see how people in different parts of the world live.

“The boys from Palestine all seem to support either Real Madrid or Barcelona, so we sent them over an Arsenal shirt to try to convert them.

“If that hasn’t worked, we’ve lined up a tour of the Emirates Stadium when they come over.”

To help with the funding or sign up a team for the tournament at Market Road contact Will on 07951 722 479, or email info@camdenandregentsparkyouthleague.com for further details.