A ‘Jingle Jangles Football Festival’ was held in the spirit of Christmas on Tuesday at the CIFA Complex in Matavera, for young aspiring football stars.

The humid weather and one half of the CIFA complex covered in water from heavy rain didn’t stop energetic football lovers from flocking to the field from 10am-12pm to take part in a range of activities.

The football festival was the last for this year following the ‘She Shines’ and ‘Future Stars’ football festivals held earlier in the year.

Participants were encouraged to wear their festive colours of red and green.

Kids from all ages were able to take part in a range of activities including mini football games centered around goal shooting skills and teamwork, as well as ball juggling, and tug of war. Prizes for some of the activities included soccer balls and lollies which were given out at each station.

Tupou Brogan, Cook Islands Football’s women’s development officer, said the event was a great way for them to wrap up the year. She hoped that the kids involved felt the Christmas spirit.

“Each festival this year has improved in numbers and interest. Our hope for next year is that interest grows even more and we have more kids participating and getting into the sport.”