THE DUNOON Youth Football League (DYFL) hosted its fourth annual Gala Day over the weekend of May 17 and 18 – and what a weekend of football it was.
More than 600 young players descended on Dunoon Stadium across the two days, with teams travelling from across Argyll, Greenock, Dumbarton and Glasgow to take part in the ever-growing youth football festival.
Saturday kicked off bright and early, with some teams making the journey from as early as 6.30am to arrive in time for the 10.30am start. Mini Kickers and P1 to P4 age groups took to the pitch, cheered on by an enthusiastic crowd of family, friends and football fans who filled the stadium under glorious, hot sunshine. Dunoon’s home teams competed strongly, as did the squads from Bute’s Brandane Bulls.
Sunday saw the P5 and P6 age groups take over the action with 7-a-side matches. Once again, the sun was shining, and the atmosphere across both days was electric, with organisers receiving glowing feedback about the local facilities and the smooth running of the event. Plans are already being discussed to make next year’s festival even bigger and better.
DYFL organisers have extended heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make the weekend a success. Special recognition was given to main sponsors Build Depot Dunoon, Shearwater Marine Services, and Sweet Spot Dunoon, as well as to the many local pitch sponsors whose generous support was vital.
A huge thank you also goes to the dedicated volunteers who gave up their time across both days to help with set-up, stalls, goals and general coordination. DYFL is a volunteer-run club, and the success of the festival is a testament to the hard work of its community.
The club is always on the lookout for new coaches or anyone willing to lend a hand. If you’re interested in supporting the next generation of local footballers, DYFL would love to hear from you.
