Sign your team up for Nottinghamshire's Community Kicks 2026 football tournament

Community Kicks saw more than 400 players and 43 teams battle it out over 118 seven-a-side matches before a knockout stage crowned the champions of each age category last year.

Team registrations are now open for the popular annual tournament, which returns on July 12, at David Ross Sports Village in Nottingham.

A key focus of Community Kicks is to use football to foster trust and confidence between the police and young people, wielding the power of sport to help educate children on how they can keep themselves safe.

The event is designed to bring communities together, with a family fun day available alongside the football tournament, which attracted an estimated 2,000 spectators last year.

Visitors can enjoy a range of family-friendly entertainment, including trying their hand at a virtual reality experience.

Educational activities provided by force departments and partners will also be available.

Following the day of football-filled action, all players will receive a medal, and winners will also be presented with a trophy.

The tournament is open to young people aged between 10 and 14-years-old, with U11, U12, U13, and U14 categories available as per 2025/26 season age groups.

It is open to all teams, regardless of official club status, so a group of friends, with a maximum of 10 players, can also register.

Places are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and all teams must be registered by the 31 May 2026 deadline. Registrations will close early once all 48 places have been filled.

A team manager, aged 18 and over, is required to chaperone and be responsible for the children throughout the day.

Free on-site car parking is available, and free food and refreshments are available to all players on the day.

Inspector Paul Peatfield is Nottinghamshire Police’s engagement team lead, who organises the tournament each year.

He said: “Community Kicks continues to go from strength to strength and we’re looking forward to building on last year’s success.

“Football has the unique ability to inspire positive change among communities and provide opportunities both on and off the pitch.

“Events like this are crucial for young people, providing a space for them to enjoy football, develop teamwork skills, and build confidence.

“Breaking down barriers between young people and the police is key so that they feel comfortable approaching us with any issues they are experiencing.

“It’s really rewarding to see first-hand how all the young people embrace this opportunity, making it much more than just a football tournament.

“It also serves as a platform to raise awareness of and promote key safety advice to help keep children safe and prevent crime from occurring in the first place.

“Nottinghamshire Police is committed to working with our communities and partners, and Community Kicks is a perfect example of what can be achieved when we work together.”

For more information, including how to register a team, visit www.nottinghamshire.police.uk and all other enquiries, please contact [email protected].