IT’S not often we get the chance to host high-profile clubs such as Leeds United, Derby County or Aberdeen here at the Showgrounds – but that’s exactly what’s happening on the weekend of April 26/28th when we welcome the participating teams in the third annual Sligo Super Cup.

The Sligo Super Cup is an elite under-12 tournament which has generated huge interest in its first two years. Here at Sligo Rovers, we are delighted to be associated with the tournament and to make our facilities available for thee days of action-packed football.

This year, the eight teams involved are Leeds United, Derby County, Aberdeen, Glenavon, Dublin&District Schoolboys League, Mayo League, Donegal League and our own Sligo/Leitrim League.

Working closely with the Sligo/Leitrim Schoolboys/girls leagues in recent years, Sligo Rovers is a strong advocate of the development of youth football and we are delighted to see the tangible results of so many of our current first team squad having graduated through local youth football.

The Sligo Super Cup is an important early step on this ladder, affording local young players the chance to showcase their talent against the very best academy players from across Ireland and the UK.

In all, there will be 16 tournament games staged at the Showgrounds over the weekend of April 26th/28th, kicking off at 3 pm on the Friday and culminating in the final on Sunday morning.

The last two tournaments have highlighted the exceptionally high standard of football at this level, and we would encourage all our supporters to come along to see some of the games and to support our local youngsters. You will undoubtedly be getting an early glance at the stars of the future.

We will announce more details of this exciting youth tournament as the date draws closer.