PROMOTIONAL VIDEO

Click here to view the promotional video for the Manchester Umbro Cup.

THE EXPERIENCE
The Umbro Cup provides teams with the unique opportunity of participating in this year's soccer tournament at the same venue as used for the highly acclaimed 2002 Commonwealth Games. This means that all visiting teams will have the fantastic experience of enjoying the splendid sports facilities of a major sports event at Manchester University's Sports City.

Established in 1993, this tournament has grown to become the largest International Youth Soccer Tournament to be held in Britain.

Reasons why you should visit!

• 400 teams from 20 nations
• Free use of Training Fields
• Professional Coaching Clinics
• Excellent range of accommodation
• Quality competition - minimum 6 games
• 26 immaculate grass pitches on the one site
• One of Europe's finest Tournament complexes
• Superb unique Excursion Programme including
• The opportunity to visit Manchester United's Stadium, Megastore and new Museum
• Excellent communication and transport service
• Sports Shop discount card
• Press & T.V. Coverage
• Free medical support

The Region

Chester
Historic Chester, dating back more than 2000 years to Roman times, is an excellent choice as a base for exploring Northwest England and North Wales. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride up the River Dee or ride the many open-topped buses. Highlights include Chester cathedral, the Town Crier, the Deva Roman experience and the famous Eastgate.

Manchester
En route to Chester, stop at world-famous Old Trafford Stadium, home of Manchester United. Enjoy the museum and stadium tour, followed by a visit to the United megastore; then dine in the Red Café. Liverpool is an easy 30-minute ride from your Chester hotel. Memorable excursions include Anfield, home of Liverpool F.C., and The Cavern, birthplace of the Beatles and the start of their Magical Mystery Tour. The Albert Dock Marina, a great place for shopping, also houses historical features from the city's involvement in the 19th-century slave trade. Forty minutes from Chester is the beautiful Snowdonia National Park, and Snowdon, Wales' highest peak. Take the mountain railway to the summit (if you don't need the exercise!), enjoy spectacular views and dine at the top. Caernarfon Castle, where Prince Charles was investitured, is nearby. On your return trip to Chester, call at historic Conway Castle.

Organization
All teams normally play two games per day (minimum 6 games). This is unique to the Manchester Festival. This provides all squad players the opportunity of playing a full game every day. Other tournaments play only one game per day which means that not all players have the opportunity of playing each day.

Nations that register from the 1st January will be granted dispensation upon request.

Age Groups
Boys: Under 11 to 19
Girls: Under 14 & 17