Finalist - Glendowan FC
Since its formation, Glendowan FC has been dedicated to providing a safe, welcoming environment for young people in the Colin community, promoting a positive football culture through the beautiful game. The club supports players from Under 5 to Under 16 and, in 2024, proudly added a senior team, creating a full pathway for players to progress.
In 2024, Glendowan FC was honoured to receive the IFA Grassroots Award for Junior Club of the Year for the Belfast Region, recognising its commitment and positive impact on the local community.
Founded in 1999 by parents Terry Cassidy and David Owen to engage their young sons, Glendowan began as a street team playing five-a-side friendlies. In 2002, Eddie Mulligan came on board, registering the club officially and entering teams into the Down and Connor leagues. Since then, Glendowan has grown into the largest youth football club in the Colin area, with over 300 registered players.
The club offers players opportunities across the Lisburn League, Belfast and District League, IFA Small-Sided Games, FonaCab Development League, and ProDirect Development League. In their debut season, the senior team lifted the Nelson Cup in the Belfast & District Football League.
With over 30 volunteer coaches, Glendowan FC remains a cornerstone of the community, inspiring players of all ages to grow, compete, and thrive.