SerpApi.Org
Kris Lindsay, National Academy Manager for the Irish FA is usually tasked with overseeing scouting and developing the north’s next big talent.
Lindsay, however, will not be attending this year’s O’Neills Foyle Cup in an official capacity, instead cheering on his son, Alex, from the sidelines.
Alex Lindsay is representing Glenavon, one of his dad’s former clubs, in this year’s youth tournament in Derry.
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“It’s nice to have a week off and just be a spectator, cheering on my son and the rest of the Glenavon squad,” said Lindsay, who used to play for the Mourneview outfit.
“They’re in a tough enough group, but that’s what these tournaments are all about. It’s more matches, more experience and another opportunity for the players to test themselves. They’re all really looking forward to it.”
Glenavon finished fifth in their six-team group, which included Core Soccer Academy of Derry and Rangers FC Academy, as well as Letterkenny FC Academy, Moyola Park Academy, and Magherafelt Sky Blues Academy.
“I’ve never been involved in coaching a team at the Foyle Cup. I’ve been up a few times to watch players, but this is the first time I’ll be here for the whole week,” continued the former Linfield defender.
Despite the tough campaign, Lindsay knows more than most how valuable experiences like the Foyle Cup can be for budding footballers such as his son.
“They learn how to prepare properly for games, how to look after themselves over the course of a tournament and what it’s like to spend a week together as teammates,” explained Lindsay.
“Those are all important life experiences as well as football experiences.
“They’re making memories, meeting new people through football and enjoying being part of something much bigger than themselves.
“That’s what tournaments like this are all about.”
The Under-11 category that the former Dungannon Swifts manager’s son is playing in is one of 23 categories that the competition offers, and more than 20,000 players, coaches and officials are descending on the North West as part of over 1,000 teams.
“There was a real buzz,” said the IFA official.
“Everyone is looking forward to the week ahead, playing competitive football, representing their clubs and making the most of the opportunity.”
The scale of the tournament also left a lasting impression on the former Cliftonville assistant manager, who praised the work that goes into delivering the youth football competition.
“The organisers deserve tremendous credit,” he said.
“When you look at the number of teams, the number of age groups and the amount of matches taking place across the week, it’s an incredible logistical challenge.
“I was looking through the fixtures before the tournament started and the amount of planning that goes into making it all run so smoothly is remarkable.
“It’s a fantastic achievement, and everyone involved deserves enormous credit.”
