Mayor kicks off launch of SuperCup NI

THE Mayor has welcomed the return of an elite youth football tournament to the Borough.

Antrim and Newtownabbey will once again play host to world-class youth football as the Borough prepares to welcome some of the globe’s most talented young female footballers for the 2025 Budget Energy SuperCupNI Girls’ Premier and Junior Sections.

Taking place from Monday 28th July to Thursday 31st July, the Girls’ tournament features a dynamic mix of elite-level academies from the UK and USA, alongside top local sides from across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Among the headline teams for 2025 are Manchester United, Aston Villa, Brighton & Hove Albion, and the Northern Ireland international side, all set to compete across a packed four-day schedule at venues throughout the Borough - including Chimney Corner in Antrim.

“We are particularly proud to see local players lining up alongside international talent, demonstrating that pathways to the top of the game can begin right here in Antrim and Newtownabbey,” said Myor Leah Kirkparick.

“I look forward to a fantastic week of football, friendship and fierce competition and I encourage everyone to come along and be part of it.”

* Full report on page 42.