AROUND 100 girls from primary schools across Torfaen took part in a football festival at Cwmbran Stadium in preparation for the start of the women’s FIFA World Cup.

Schools across Torfaen put forward teams representing countries from the upcoming tournament, which kicks off this Thursday, July 20.

Teams were tasked with creating fun fact files, flags and wore the colours of the countries they represented at the event last week.

Taking part was year 6 pupil Elise, from Blaenavon Victoria Heritage School, who said: “I’ve really enjoyed the festival, it’s been fun to get away from school and be with my friends playing football.

The day was hosted by Torfaen Sports Development and encouraged schools to incorporate subjects like numeracy, literacy, and geography through the medium of sport.

Miley, a year 6 pupil from Woodlands Primary School added: “My team represented Germany in the festival, and I really enjoyed learning some interesting things about the country. It’s also been fun working together as a team.”

Free Press Series: Over 100 girls took part in football festival in Torfaen Over 100 girls took part in football festival in Torfaen (Image: Torfaen Council)

More than 100 girls from Primary Schools across Torfaen took part in Football festival. Picture: Torfaen Council

Jess Williams from Swansea City FC Ladies was in attendance to pass on some of her knowledge and tips to players, and refereed matches alongside Torfaen Council’s Sports leaders and Gwent Police.

Jacob Guy, sports development officer at Torfaen Council, said: “We’ve been running this football festival now for several years, due to the increase in popularity and growing demand for the women’s game. 

“By doing so, it gives us the opportunity to provide exit routes into local clubs and work with a wide range of partners including the Football Association of Wales and Gwent Police, to promote the importance of inclusivity within sport and society.”

Wales missed out on qualification after a heart breaking 2-1 defeat in extra time against Switzerland in the play-off final in October 2022.

England are the only country from UK to have qualified for the competition, and they will kick off against Haiti for their first match on Saturday, July 22.