The 10th annual Play for the Memory (PFTM) tournaments concluded in June and July 2025 at Cheshunt FC in Hertfordshire, bringing together senior men’s teams and youth teams from U11 through U14, in competition, friendship, remembrance, and community. The Men’s tournament was broadcast live throughout the day on Sky Sports. Across all age groups, the tournaments showcased outstanding talent, sportsmanship, and a powerful collective purpose.
Tournament Highlights & Champions
- – Men’s Tournament (10th Anniversary – 21 June 2025) Celebrating a decade of PFTM, 20 men’s teams competed. Camden United FC were crowned Men’s Champions after an unbeaten run, culminating in a narrow 1-0 win over Youths On The Move in the final.
- – Boys’ U14 (6 July 2025) London Athletic claimed the U14 title, moving through the group stage unbeaten and defeating Echoes Orange 2-0 in the final.
- – Boys’ U13 (6 July 2025) SJW Red lifted the U13 trophy, edging out Impact FC 3-2 in a close final.
- – Boys’ U12 (5 July 2025) Impact Haggerston were champions in the U12 category, prevailing 1-0 over Ware Youth Clarets in a hard-fought final.
- – Boys’ U11 (5 July 2025) A dominant performance by Chars FC Blues saw them end the tournament unbeaten and winning the U11 title, overcoming Global Football Academy in the final.
Celebrity and Special Guest Appearances
This year’s tournaments were elevated by a host of special guests from football and entertainment. These included: Colin Kazim-Richards, London-born striker and former Turkish international who played for clubs including Fenerbahçe and Blackburn Rovers, inspired players with his experience at the highest level. Jobi McAnuff, English-born professional who represented Jamaica internationally and captained Reading, shared his leadership insights with the youth participants. Sebastien Bassong, French-born defender who represented Cameroon and played in the Premier League for Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United, and Norwich City, encouraged young players through coaching and personal engagement.
Legendary striker Andy Cole, former England international and Manchester United star, helped celebrate emerging talent, including presenting the Men’s “One to Watch” award. Adding energy and community spirit, Big Zuu, BAFTA-winning musician, chef and television personality, joined the celebrations through his support with Drip Water, engaging fans and players alike.
Sponsors
PFTM 2025 was made possible by generous sponsors: Precision Proco and WTTB – signage and print production, Drip Water – hydration partner, The One Glove – providing gloves to every goalkeeper, PRIME Hydration – fuelling performance, Crown & Co – style and apparel partner, David Lloyd Clubs Enfield – supporting player recovery and wellness, Filthy Fellas – promotion and publicity.
The Spirit & Legacy of Play for the Memory
Founder of Play for the Memory, Michael Donaldson, said: “For ten years, Play for the Memory has been about so much more than football. Every match, every cheer, every trophy lifts the memory of those we honour, strengthens communities, and inspires the next generation. This year, seeing Camden United’s grit, the talent in the youth finals, and the incredible support from both sponsors and guests reminded me that when we play with purpose, we build something lasting. We are grateful to everyone — each player, spectator, special guest, parent and sponsor — for helping turn our vision into action. Here’s to many more years of memories, dreams, and goals.”
From the Men’s tournament, where a decade of memories was honoured, to the youngest age groups, where sheer joy, ambition, and early skill intertwine, Play for the Memory continues to grow as more than just a tournament. It is a platform for remembrance, for community building, for young people to believe in themselves, and for families and supporters to come together in hope, solidarity, and pride.
To find out more about Play for the Memory and to register your team’s interest for the 2026 tournaments, visit https://playforthememory.com/register/
