More than 30 TyneMet College Football Excellence students, in partnership with Blyth Spartans, have returned from the trip of a lifetime after competing in the prestigious 2026 New York City Cup.
The squad travelled to the Big Apple on Wednesday 8 July for their end-of-season tour, combining international competition with the opportunity to experience some of New York’s most iconic landmarks.
The tournament got off to the perfect start, with both the Under 17 and Under 19 teams recording impressive opening-day victories.
The Under 17s defeated French Canadian side HB Beliers 3-0. After a goalless first half, the team produced an outstanding second-half performance, with goals from Jakob Zmich, Ashton Wakenshaw and Jay Richardson to secure the win.
The Under 19s also impressed, winning against BWP Albany Football Academy 2-0. Like the U17s, they were level at the break before taking control in the second half. Goals coming from Harry Richardson and Liam Clavering led to the well-deserved win.
The opening day saw TyneMet College record two clean sheets, score five goals and collect maximum points to make their mark in the tournament.
The momentum continued over the following two days, with the Under 17s proving unstoppable throughout the competition. They won every match without conceding a single goal to be crowned 2026 New York City Cup Champions.
The team recorded dominant victories over Oakville SC (4-0) and Don Bosco (6-0) before producing another exceptional display in the final, defeating New Jersey Elite Academy 5-0. Jay Richardson scored a superb hat-trick with goals also coming from Jayden Storey and Will Dixon to complete the winning streak.
The Under 19s rounded off their campaign with an impressive 4-0 win over South Bronx thanks to goals from Theo Day, Liam Clavering, Joe Youens and Oliver Alderson.
The match was particularly special for Theo Day, who scored his first goal for the college in what was his final appearance in TyneMet colours. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, the Under 19s were unable to continue in the remainder of the competition.
Across the final two days of the tournament, TyneMet College’s teams recorded four wins, 19 goals, four clean sheets and celebrated the Under 17s being crowned New York City Cup Champions.
Away from the pitch, the students embraced everything New York has to offer, creating lifelong memories through visits to Times Square, the Brooklyn Bridge and the 9/11 Memorial, as well as experiencing the incredible atmosphere of an American baseball game.
Marc Nash, Head Coach of the Football Excellence programme, said:
This was an incredible experience for our students both on and off the pitch. The way the players represented TyneMet College and Blyth Spartans throughout the tournament was outstanding. The Under 17s fully deserved to be crowned champions after some exceptional performances, while the Under 19s also showed fantastic quality and character throughout the competition. Beyond the football, the opportunity to experience New York together and create lifelong memories is something the students will never forget. We're extremely proud of every single one of them.
The Football Excellence programme, delivered in partnership with Blyth Spartans, gives students the opportunity to combine their studies with high-level coaching, competitive fixtures and unique experiences such as competing on the international stage. Find out more about the course here.
Congratulations to all of the players and staff on an unforgettable tour and a fantastic achievement in New York.
