Denzil McDaniel is appealing for Fermanagh people to get behind his young team at this year’s Super Cup NI which gets underway next week at the North coast.
McDaniel’s squad have been working hard as they prepare for the world famous tournament and the manager hopes that people get behind the Fermanagh team.
“Every year, Fermanagh folk attend and give great support to the teams during the tournament. The boys have worked extremely hard, and I hope the supporters give us great vocal encouragement. This is a big event in the lives of these young lads, and whatever people think of the organisation I hope that the people get behind these kids,” he said.
“The boys have worked extremely hard, have had a good build-up and shown a great attitude. It won’t be an easy challenge, but they’re ready for it and I know they will value all the encouragement and support that Fermanagh supporters always give their own, whatever sport or activity we’re engaged in,” he added.
The Fermanagh Junior side will begin their campaign against Californian outfit Strikers FC South Coast and McDaniel is expecting a big challenge for his players although he stresses that he has belief in his own squad and knows that they will give it their best shot.
“We face an American side on the first day, and I’m sure they will be agile and athletic. This will be a great challenge for these Fermanagh lads, but I and the other coaches believe in them and we know they will give it their best,” he commented.
One of the big appeals of the Super Cup is the variety of sides and styles that the local lads get the opportunity to play against. And it is no different this year for the Juniors as the game against Strikers FC will be followed by a clash with Dundalk Schoolboys and then a meeting against Swindon Town.
“Different challenges lie ahead,” acknowledged McDaniel. “We play Dundalk on the Tuesday which will provide a different challenge, probably more physical, while on Wednesday English side Swindon Town have always shown a very professional attitude, with fitness, organisation and plenty of skill.”
Preparations for the tournament have gone well for the Junior squad and included victory in the Asda Four Team Tournament which was held in Omagh recently. For McDaniel it has been all about getting things right for next week.
“We have concentrated on getting them fit and organised, focusing on a certain style of play and the players have all accepted what we’ve asked for and worked hard at it,” he said.
And he stresses that the focus should be all on the players.
“Throughout my involvement in youth football, I always say the main focus should be the boys themselves. Too many coaches and clubs think they’re the main people; they’re not.
So, what does he want from his squad next week?
“I want the players to embrace and enjoy this wonderful experience; as always with young players, I want them to be the best they can be.”