FURD, in close co-operation with the Sheffield and Hallamshire County FA, organises the annual All Nations tournament aimed at refugees and asylum-seekers living in Sheffield, together with more established communities. The event is part of Refugee Week in late June, and now receives support from Sheffield City Council’s Summer of Sanctuary initiative.
In 2011 the tournament attracted a record entry of 15 teams, including players from Iraq, Afghanistan, Eritrea, Yemen, Somalia, Ghana, Congo, Georgia and Bangladesh. Following a tense penalty shoot-out after a 1-1 scoreline against a young Sharrow United side in the final, Yemeni Stars deservedly won the trophy at their ninth attempt! Councillor Jackie Drayton, a longstanding supporter of FURD and the All Nations, presented the medals and trophies.
Together with our County FA partners we are planning an expansion of the All Nations format, with regular leagues being organised as well as the annual tournament. Meanwhile several teams are being helped to participate in affiliated football. The U-Mix facility will act as the base for future All Nations initiatives, hopefully starting with the 10th All Nations tournament in June 2012.