FOOTBALL fans showed their team spirit by dipping into their pockets to help the team representing Coventry in the 2024 International Children’s Games (ICG).
Spectators for Coventry City’s fixture against Cardiff City on Monday raised funds for their upcoming trip.
Sixteen young athletes from Coventry, set to compete in girls football and track and field events at the ICG this summer, were at the match as ambassadors, aiming to secure support for their journey to the international event.
Dubbed ‘Team Coventry,’ the youngsters stood out as the sole British contingent at the Games, which received recognition and approval from the International Olympic Committee.
The games are scheduled to take place in León, Mexico, between July 15 and 20.
For the first time, Team Coventry will field a six-a-side girls football team, managed by Sky Blues in the Community. The squad received a boost with the donation of this season’s CCFC home kit from the Sky Blues
More than 40 girls tried for a spot through trial events held earlier in the year, and a diverse group of eight players, representing local clubs such as Coventry Sphinx, Coundon Court, and Coventry City Girls made the team.
Marianne Botterill, the girls football team coach, said: “This is such an amazing opportunity for the female footballers of Coventry.
“I am delighted to take them to Mexico, to coach them and hopefully aid them in bringing that gold medal back to Coventry.”
Eight track and field athletes, from the Coventry Godiva Harriers, earned their place on the team after a competitive trial event. These young athletes will compete across various disciplines including the 100 metres, high jump, relays, and shot putt, adding depth to Team Coventry’s representation.
Dr Brian Darby and Amanda Deavy, this year’s Team Coventry track and field coaches, said: “We’re delighted to be able to take eight Godiva athletes to represent Coventry at the ICG. It’s not just an incredible opportunity to compete on the international sporting stage, but also a chance to make new friends and gain new experiences.”
Team Coventry has taken part in every International Children’s Games since 1997 and hosted the event in 2005 and 2022.
