Triumph in the Caritas Cup

The girls’ football team from St Columba’s High School and the boys’ football team from St Margaret’s Academy triumphed in the Caritas Cup competition for the east of Scotland.

The competition had a boys’ and girls’ competition and was held at Holy Rood High School in Edinburgh. The other schools taking part were St Margaret’s Academy in Livingston, St Mungo’s in Falkirk, St Andrew’s in Kirkcaldy, St Kentigern’s in Blackburn and Edinburgh high schools St Augustine’s and St Thomas’.

The Caritas Cup is the brainchild of Adam, Aiden, Bailey and Daniel - four friends from Airdrie. It brings together teams from Catholic schools to play football tournaments in their Diocese, all in aid of charities such as SCIAF, and other important causes.

It was first held in Motherwell Diocese before expanding to schools in the Archdiocese of St Andrew’s and Edinburgh, as well as Paisley. Each team had seven players and the games were run in a round robin format with every team playing each other and the final standings were decided in a league table.

Monsignor Jeremy Milne was there too to hand out the awards to the winning students. He said:

“Congratulations to the winners, both boys and girls, it has been a brilliant event. Thanks to all those who organised it all. It was such a good example of how our schools can come together.”

The competition was attended by Michael Hamilton from SCIAF. He said:

“Very well done to the girls of St Columba’s!

“It was a great day of faith and football. This was the second time the competition has been held in the east of the country, as it goes from strength to strength.

“Our thanks go to the students and staff from Holy Rood High, our amazing hosts, who made the whole day run so smoothly. Each school donated to SCIAF to take part and funds we also raised funds on the day through a lovely bake stall and people giving donations.”

Callum Timms, Principal Teacher of Guidance, St Columba’s said:

“After hosting the Caritas Cup last year, it’s great to be back - celebrating friendship, football and faith.”