The Albion Foundation’s Post-16 Football and Education programmes came together in style for their annual tournament, hosted at the Aston University Recreation Centre. The event provided a fantastic opportunity for learners from across our Sandwell College and Etone programmes to celebrate a season of team and individual development both on and off the pitch.
Eight teams, all of whom have competed throughout the year in either the Community & Education Football Alliance (CEFA) or the Association of Colleges (AoC) Sport leagues, took part in a day of competitive yet inclusive football. The tournament reflected everything that makes The Albion Foundation’s Post-16 programme so impactful—opportunity, progression, and a shared passion for the game.
The format saw teams split into two groups, competing in a round-robin stage where every match mattered. Players demonstrated excellent quality and commitment throughout, with each side eager to make their mark. As the group stages concluded, the competition stepped up, with all teams advancing into the knockout rounds to set up an exciting finale.
After a series of closely contested matches, it was Sandwell College EFL A who emerged victorious. In a tightly fought final, they secured a 1–0 win against EFL C, showing resilience and composure under pressure to lift the trophy and earn the bragging rights for the year.
Adding further value to the day, Sky News attended to cover an important initiative centred on promoting healthier eating habits among young people. In partnership with the High Steaks initiative from Hubbub and Final Third, all food provided on the day by YaardHut was completely vegan while remaining high in protein. With a target audience of young males aged 16–19, the initiative aligned perfectly with the Post-16 cohort, offering accessible and nutritious alternatives to traditional meat-based options.
Reflecting on the day, Sam Whitmore, Head of Football, said:
"The Post 16 tournament is a really positive day to celebrate the great success that the programme has had over the course of the season. All eight boys’ teams that represent us from Sandwell and Etone College come together to compete internally for the bragging rights. It’s also a great day for all of the students to mix, engage and enjoy the food provided thanks to Rich Holmes, who is involved in the High Steaks initiative from Hubbub and Final Third.
Huge congratulations to all of the players that won their players’ or coaches’ awards too!"
Beyond the competition, the event also provided an opportunity to recognise individual and collective achievements across the season. Following the final, players came together for a presentation ceremony, where Players’ Player and Coach’s Player awards were handed out to those who have demonstrated outstanding effort, leadership, and performance throughout the year.
Events like this tournament highlight the wider impact of The Albion Foundation’s Post-16 programmes. Alongside competitive football, learners continue to build confidence, develop key life skills, and create positive pathways for their futures.
The day at Aston University stood as a fitting celebration of the journey all learners have been on this season—bringing everyone together to reflect on progress, recognise achievement, and look ahead to future opportunities.
Congratulations to all teams who took part, and in particular to Sandwell College EFL A on their well-deserved victory.
Check out the photo gallery from the tournament below.
