SAPMAT Students Shine at National Football Finals at St George’s Park

On Monday 17th June 2025, students from across the Solihull Alternative Provision Multi Academy Trust (SAPMAT) took to the pitch at St George’s Park – the iconic training ground of the England national team – to compete in the National Engage Football Final. The experience was nothing short of extraordinary for both teams and staff alike.

Solihull Academy and Coventry Academy proudly represented the West Midlands at this countrywide event after qualifying through a hotly contested SEMH regional tournament earlier this term. For many of our students, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to step onto professional-quality pitches, wear their kit with pride, and compete on a national stage

Coventry Academy’s Day in the Spotlight

Coventry Academy’s team – managed by Mr Taylor and supported by Mr Jefferies, Ms Elliott-Martin and Mr Ashbridge – was made up of 9 students from across Wyken, Herald, and the Refocus Programme. They showed incredible resilience, determination, and team spirit under intense heat and pressure.

Tournament Highlights:

• Played 11 matches: Won 2, drew 6, lost 3
• Goals scored: 4; Goals conceded: 6
• Top scorer: Kye R with 3 goals, including a stunning flying volley into the top corner to seal a dramatic 2–1 win
• Young talent on display: Kyle B - only in Year 8 - held his own against players two years older and significantly taller
• A hard-fought 0–0 draw against Solihull Academy, reflecting the even and respectful rivalry between the two SAPMAT schools

The team were commended for their attitude, teamwork and how they represented their academy and Trust. They truly embodied everything that SAPMAT stands for: effort, resilience, and pride. As Mr Taylor reflected

“I think that the tournament ideology was a masterstroke. Combining football, the nations favourite sport, with the SEMH of young people, a pivotal area of focus in today's society, and using one another for positivity amongst our young people, was a much-needed intervention to raise the self confidence and personal pride of the students in our setting.  The resilience and sportsmanship that were on display across all players from various parts of the country, were testament to the staff that work with them everyday, but most importantly, the students themselves.” 

Solihull Academy’s Standout Performance

 Solihull Academy’s U16s, managed by Mr O’Brian with support from Mr Angell, Mr Riley, and Miss Recci, also made a powerful impression at the tournament. Competing in the challenging 12-team round-robin format, the team wore their yellow and black stripes with pride and delivered a series of spirited performances.

Team Highlights:

• Demonstrated disciplined defending and attacking efficiency throughout the day
• Maintained strong team morale despite setbacks, showing maturity and unity
• Played with passion and composure in every match, including the already mentioned memorable 0–0 draw against Coventry Academy

Player Spotlights:

• Lamisha Ward – A rock in defence, Lamisha’s calmness under pressure and fearless tackling helped keep the team organised and competitive throughout the tournament.
• Liam Denham – The team’s top scorer, Liam was a constant threat up front, using his movement and powerful finishing to great effect.

Off the pitch, the Solihull squad were praised for their respectful behaviour, sportsmanship, and unwavering support for one another. As Mr Angell observed:

“In a challenging 12-team tournament in the scorching heat, Solihull Academy U16s held their own, competing in every fixture with determination. With standout performances from both individuals and the team, they left St George’s Park with heads held high and valuable experience gained.”

A Trust United in Pride

Both Solihull and Coventry Academy teams were supported by dedicated staff who ensured the students were well-prepared and encouraged throughout the day. The collaboration and camaraderie across SAPMAT was evident, with students and staff alike celebrating each other’s successes.  

The event was superbly well-organised and played in excellent spirit, with all teams showing great sportsmanship. The tournament was played in a league format with games designed to maximise action and opportunity. And the facilities at St George’s Park did not disappoint, offering an unforgettable backdrop to an unforgettable day.

SAPMAT CEO Stephen Steinhaus sums it up perfectly:

“As an American, I would not call myself a football fan or a football guy. However, having seen how both of our teams carried themselves in such a high pressure situation (12 teams fighting it out for a national championship), I can’t tell you how proud I am of all of them and their coaches. A fantastic achievement and a fantastic moment…what a milestone for SAPMAT. Congratulations to all students and staff.”