East Midlands cadets battle it out at regional football finals
More than 90 Army Cadets from across the East Midlands came together at Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, Grantham, on Sunday 1 March 2026 for the Regional Six-a-Side Football Competition.
Representing Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, cadets competed across senior and junior boys’ and girls’ categories. Played in good weather and in excellent spirit throughout, the tournament showcased teamwork, resilience and county pride.
The event was organised by Major Neil Atherton, the Headquarters Centre (East) Region Sports Advisor.
Speaking after the competition, Major Atherton said: “It is great to see young people out playing sport, I would like to thank Lincolnshire Army Cadet Force for their support in organising the event, all of the adult volunteers who gave up their Sunday to transport cadets to Grantham, the referees and, above all the cadets who played their hearts out representing their Counties.
“The winning teams in each category will now represent East Midlands in the National Football Competition being held on 21 March, we wish them the best of luck.”
On the day, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland secured victory in the Senior Boys category, while Lincolnshire claimed the Junior Boys title. Derbyshire enjoyed a particularly strong tournament, winning both the Senior and Junior Girls competitions.
The winning teams will now go on to represent the East Midlands at the National Football Competition later this month.