Croydon District Schools’ FA and Sefton District Schools’ FA crowned National Champions in the 2019/20 U15 Inter Association Trophy competition.
The English Schools’ FA has declared Croydon District Schools’ FA and Sefton District Schools’ FA joint champions of the U15 Inter Association Trophy for Season 2019-2020.
The decision has been taken after Covid-19 prematurely ended the season and it was established that it would not be feasible for these teams to participate in this year’s National Final match.
Darren Alcock, ESFA National Competitions Manager said “Players of Croydon and Sefton District Schools’ FAs have worked incredibly hard to reach this English Schools’ FA Cup Final. We are very pleased to have reached a resolution for this final which recognises the effort, skill and determination of those involved with both teams. To be crowned a National Champion is an extremely prestigious honour, so we hope that the players, staff and communities will enjoy this accolade and we wish the players well in their future football endeavours.”
Paul Langan, Team Manager of Croydon DSFA said “This Croydon team had a remarkable run to the final, playing 5, scoring 18 and conceding 0! The team grew stronger every game and were peaking at the right time in each round. We overcame some excellent competition along the way, beating Woking, Waltham Forest, Bedford, Medway and Brighton. Every round was progressively harder and the boys were developing something really special as a team. The cohesion on and off the pitch was something I hadn’t witnessed before and this became more evident every round as teams found it hard to break us down and the boys knew how to manage a game. I have worked with these boys for four years and their progress, development, attitude and work ethic is something I have not witnessed in my 14 years with Croydon District and something I am really proud of. They are outstanding ambassadors of Croydon Schools Football and have made history by being crowned Nationall Champions for the first time in Croydons history. We are all devesated the boys wont get to showcase their talents in the final, but I don’t want them to forget what an expetional achievement this is and that they are National Champions. Thanks to all the players, parents and Croydon Schools FA for their support along the way.”

The National Governing Body for Schools’ Football in England.