Hi everyone,

 

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicking off on June 11th, excitement is in the air for football fans everywhere! 

However, it’s important that all parents understand that Stepaside Mini World Cup is a very different event. 

While the FIFA World Cup is all about crowning champions and handing out awards like the Golden Boot, Golden Glove, and Player of the Tournament, our focus is on something much more meaningful. Our true measure of success will be the happiness of the 300 children who return home each day feeling valued, having enjoyed the sport, the camaraderie, and the spirit of friendly competition—without being overly concerned about the results.

 

For those who have supported a Mini WC before, you’ll know how challenging it can be to create evenly matched teams and maintain fairness. Rest assured, the organizers have put a tremendous amount of effort into making sure the teams are as balanced as possible. 

To help keep games fun and fair, our mum-managers are also asked to step in if scores become too one-sided. 

This means parents should be prepared for the possibility that players could be asked to switch teams, or some may be asked not to score more goals for their team or switch positions. 

Additionally, all players should expect to be asked to play a half in goal, as very few teams will have a dedicated goalkeeper.

*Please talk to you children in advance, so they understand this*. It will help prevent issues arising during game time.

 

The organisers also need your help to make the Mini WC a positive experience for everyone. Please note the following:

- Please make sure to arrive on time for every game. Teams starting unbalanced makes it harder to achieve our goal of balanced teams

- ⁠Only players and organizers are allowed inside the ropes; parents will be asked to remain outside the ropes at all times.

- ⁠Cheering from the sidelines is great, but please leave all coaching to the mum-managers.

- ⁠Your child will most likely be asked to play in different positions throughout the tournament, including taking a turn in goal. Please do not ask the managers to play your child in a specific position. 

- ⁠We ask everyone to refrain from complaints or any abuse directed at coaches, referees, or organizers. We have a zero-tolerance policy for such behavior. Everyone involved is a volunteer and we also want them to enjoy a positive experience

 

Thank you so much for your understanding and cooperation. 

Together, we can ensure that every child enjoys the Mini WC, makes new friends, and gets to experience the joy of football.

 

Looking forward to seeing you all at the pitch!

 

Colman Lynch

Child Welfare Officer, Stepaside FC