Marco Tardelli, Assistant Manager for the Republic of Ireland senior team, launched the 6th annual international Umbro Galway Cup at Salthill Devon Football Club in Drom Soccer Park in Galway on Wednesday (May 5).

 

There will be over 50 teams in six major categories competing in this prestigious international competition, which takes place this year from 4-7 August.

 

Marco Tardelli said upon visiting the tournament venue, Drom Soccer Club, on Wednesday. "The Galway Cup is now in its sixth successive year and is considered one of the leading international underage soccer tournaments. It attracts teams from the UK, the US, and Europe as well as a strong representation of Irish clubs. The mix of international class teams helps players assess their performance, both individually and as part of a team,"

 

 

This year's U15 Elite group sees the return of Leicester City who successfully defended their 2009 title, defeating Fulham in the final, along with 2007 winners Ipswich Town, 2006 winners Aberdeen, and 2005 winners FAI Emerging Talent.

 

Six nations are represented in the U15 Elite group including Ireland, England, Scotland, Wales, Sweden, and Norway. This is the first time that a Swedish or Welsh side have competed in the Elite competition.

 

 

In the U17 category, AIK Stockholm, one of Sweden's top academies and clubs, will compete for the first time, as will Welsh side Bangor City. There is also a host of strong Irish teams and representative sides in this year's U17 competition, including Wexford District League, Fairview Rangers from Limerick and Salthill Devon. Rangers and Devon recently locked horns in the U16 SFAI Barry Cup, with the Limerick outfit winning a thrilling cup tie on penalties.

 

"Marco Tardelli is a World Cup winner, Serie A Champion, a UEFA Cup winner, and European Cup winner. Taking time out to launch the Galway Cup today is a great inspiration for local players and everyone involved in this year's tournament," says Denis Burke, Tournament Director

 

 

The Umbro Galway Cup (www.galwaycup.com ) is now a major contributor to the promotion of sports in Ireland, and the generator of substantial tourism revenues for the City of Galway. To receive more information on the 2010 Galway Cup, please visit www.galwaycup.com or contact Denis Burke, Tournament Director, on This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or +353 (0)87 7442877.

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