TheWest Ham United Foundation has once again teamed up withLyca Mobile to host the highly anticipated Lyca Mobile Cup, an event that brings together young footballers from across east London and Essex to compete, connect and thrive on and off the pitch.
This season’s tournament marked a decade of the Lyca Mobile Cup, continuing a tradition that began in the 2013/14 season. The event has grown into a cornerstone of the Foundation’s community engagement efforts, providing hundreds of young people with a chance to showcase their talents, develop confidence and build friendships through football.
Held over two action-packed days, the 2023/24 season competition featured regional qualifiers earlier in the year at venues including the iconic Little Heath - where our U18s play their home games - and aspiring players vied for a place in the grand finals held at Frenford Clubs.
The tournament brought together schools, community groups, and individuals of all backgrounds to celebrate the beautiful game and its ability to unite and inspire.
Reflecting on the significance of the event, Najma Shariffu, project lead for Premier League Kicks and the Lyca Mobile Cup, said: "This is the second year of including two age groups in the female competition, which has brought a surge in schools and participants, creating equal opportunities for both genders.
"It’s inspiring to see more females competing, showcasing their football talents, building confidence, and enjoying the sport."
A Legacy of Inspiration
The Lyca Mobile Cup is about more than just football. It’s a platform for young people to aspire, grow, and achieve their potential. This year, Tayyab Hayat - known to many as TH - returned to the Foundation as a special guest to present awards to the winners. A former Premier League Kicks participant himself, TH is now a teacher and a role model for the next generation.
Speaking at the event, TH said: "It’s always an honour to come down and work with The Foundation. I came through Premier League Kicks, so I know all about the great work they do. Now, as a teacher, it feels amazing to present the Lyca Mobile Cup and see the next generation be inspired through the West Ham United Foundation, just like I was."
His story embodies the transformative impact of the Foundation’s work, showcasing how programmes like the Lyca Mobile Cup empower young people to achieve success both on and off the field.