Exeter City FC and the University celebrate diversity with annual football tournament

The competition encourages participation from local black and minority ethnic teams and attracts players from many different parts of the world. Past winners include sides representing Poland, Slovakia, Afghanistan and Lithuania.

The tournament has been organised by Exeter City’s One Game One Community Group and is being supported by the University of Exeter, who are hosting the event, Devon FA, Exeter City Supporter’s Trust, Exeter City FC Football in the Community Trust, Smiths Solicitors (in memory of Fran Jenkin), St James Solicitors (Criminal Defence) and Tescos.

Also helping to put on the competition have been members of Open Space International FC. The new club, which involves players from previous One Game One Community tournaments, has just been accepted into the Devon and Exeter League and will play in Division 7 this season.

The tournament, which takes place at the University’s Streatham sports complex, will be launched at 10am by Professor Mark Overton, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (External Affairs).

Professor Overton commented: “The University is delighted to continue its support for this annual event. We are always at the forefront of encouraging diversity and welcoming people from around the world to Exeter. I’m looking forward to watching the competition.”

As well as the main trophy the players will compete for the Fran Jenkin Fair Play Award. The teams will also vote for the best match official who will be awarded the Duncan Underhill trophy.

One Game One Community is part of the national Kick it Out campaign which aims to address all types of discrimination in football including race, disability, gender, age, religion and sexual orientation.

“Exeter City is once again reaching out to all parts of the local community. This is a tournament with a difference and a flagship for equality and acceptance” said Martin Weiler, for the Exeter City One Game One Community Group.