Middlesbrough has become the first town outside of London to host the Team England trials for the Homeless World Cup, marking a powerful and emotional milestone for the region and the sport.
The tournament, held at Middlesbrough Sports Village, was organised by MFC Foundation in collaboration with Street Soccer London. It welcomed players from across the country, including Liverpool, Newcastle, Gateshead, Hartlepool, Sunderland, Stockton, and Middlesbrough itself.
The trials were open to individuals who are homeless or have experienced homelessness, offering not just a shot at representing their country, but also a chance to build confidence, form connections, and take a meaningful step forward in their personal journeys.
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke praised the town’s role in hosting such a significant event, calling it a proud moment.
“Football is in the town’s DNA,” he said. “To see it used as a force for good was inspiring. The whole event showed off Middlesbrough at our best.”
A Day of Football and Fellowship
The tournament featured multiple teams split into three competitive groups. After a day of skill, teamwork and determination, Hackney Tactics, Holgate Army, and Teesside Reds were crowned group winners and each took home a trophy.
But the day wasn’t just about football. It was about community, opportunity, and dignity.
Frankie Juma, head coach of Team England, is now tasked with selecting eight players from the event to represent the country at the Homeless World Cup in Oslo this August. The decision won’t be easy.
“There are some seriously good players here,” he said. “We’ve got some big decisions to make and soon.”
A Deeper Purpose
Last year, Team England finished as runners-up in Seoul, South Korea. Their manager was Craig McManus, Acting Head of MFC Foundation, who will once again lead the team this year. McManus is no stranger to the tournament he played for Scotland back in 2016 but organising the trials in Middlesbrough was a personal highlight.
While the quality of football was high, McManus stressed that the heart of the day was about more than sport.
It was about empathy, encouragement, and building a sense of hope.
“This wasn’t just about picking a team,” he said. “It was about creating a space where everyone felt valued and supported. There was a special atmosphere throughout the day players were chatting, laughing, and lifting each other up. That’s what really made it memorable.”
The Homeless World Cup isn’t just a tournament it’s a global movement. And thanks to the efforts of local organisations and the spirit of the people involved, Middlesbrough has shown once again how powerful sport can be when it’s rooted in community.
Project Middlesbrough 
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