National Championship Cup 2026
Medway Care Leavers shine in the National Championship Cup at MK Dons!
Football, Friendship and Success
YLF was delighted to support Medway’s Care Leavers as they competed in the National Championship Cup 2026, achieving an outstanding semi-final finish in their first-ever appearance at the tournament!
Eighteen care-experienced young people proudly represented Medway at this year’s National Championship Cup, demonstrating remarkable determination, teamwork and resilience throughout the competition. After topping their group, the Medway teams progressed all the way to the semi-finals, making an impressive mark on the national stage.
Organised by Pro Alliance CIC, the event brought together more than 400 players from across England and Wales at the impressive MK Dons Stadium – a fitting venue for a celebration of football, inclusion and opportunity.
The tournament was played in a competitive yet positive spirit, with plenty of skill, sportsmanship and determination on display. Medway’s journey to the semi-finals included a thrilling penalty shootout victory, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
And to top off an already successful event, two Medway players were selected to represent England at an international tournament later this year!
Reflecting on the experience, Zahra, Senior UASC Social Work Consultant, said:
“We are so proud of these boys! Between GCSEs, learning English, work commitments and everyday life, our team kept showing up for one another. Different cultures. Different languages. Different journeys. Yet football became the common language – building trust, connection, friendship and belonging.
To every young person who wore the Medway shirt today: we are so proud of you. We will always be on the sidelines cheering you on.”
YLF Chief Executive Stephen Gray also praised the young people and organisers:
“I was honoured to be invited to support Medway’s Care Leavers. Both teams made me feel incredibly welcome and were wonderful ambassadors for care-experienced young people. The universal language of football, teamwork and, of course, the shared joy of a penalty shootout victory brought everyone together.
To see so many care-experienced young people gathered in one fantastic venue was truly inspiring. Everyone involved should be immensely proud. #AllWinners”
YLF would like to congratulate every player who took part, as well as thank Pro Alliance CIC, Medway Council Children’s Services, and MK Dons for helping to create such a memorable and empowering event.
We look forward to following the continued success of the young people selected to represent England and celebrating the achievements of all those who took part.
