College football team wins league for the first time in 7 years
Fri, 08 May 2026
Written by Tyler McKenna, Audenshaw school, year 10 work placement student.
Over 50 football players from Tameside College and Clarendon Sixth Form College came together to achieve something truly “out of this world,” as described by team captain David Ekomwanredo, who is currently studying level 2 carpentry and joinery.
The squad was made up of students from a varied range of courses and levels across the colleges, proving that football has the power to connect people from all walks of life. Many of the players had never spoken to each other before joining the team, but through months of training, teamwork and determination, they built strong friendships and created a bond that carried them all the way to becoming the winners of the AoC Tier 3 Greater Manchester League, played between October 2025- April 2026, the final game being played on 22nd April against Hopwood hall.
The second half was an incredible turn of events. After a difficult first half that wasn’t in the team’s favour, the team returned to the pitch with renewed mindset and belief. Despite the pressure, the players “stayed consistent,” according to the coach, health and wellbeing team leader, Mark Pollitt, refusing to let the score line affect their mentality. The teams hard work and resilience paid off in spectacular fashion when Tameside scored a last minute winning goal, securing the victory, the trophy and the title of champions.
The scenes after the final whistle were unforgettable with players, coaches, and supporters celebrating together after an incredible team performance. The victory was not only a sporting achievement but also a reflection of the dedication and commitment shown by the students throughout the season.
Captain David Ekomwanredo praised the team spirit and the togetherness shown by everyone involved, he said: “students from all different subjects and courses united for one common goal. The success of the team highlighted the importance of discipline, communication, and perseverance both on and off the pitch.”
Speaking after the match, former Audenshaw School pupil, Mahdi, who studies construction level one, reflected on the journey that helped shape him into the player he is today. He said: “My time at Audenshaw School played a major role in my development, especially because of my sports teacher, Mr Sutherland, who was a brilliant, hardworking coach.” Mahdi credited Mr Sutherland with helping him improve both his confidence and ability on the pitch, lessons which he carried into this championship winning campaign with Tameside College.
For many of the players, this season was about more than football. It was about representing the college with pride, creating lifelong memories and forming friendships with people they may never have met otherwise. What started as a group of students from different courses became a united team that showed determination, resilience, and passion until the very last minute.
Their journey to becoming champions will be remembered not only for the dramatic winning goal, but also for the sense of community and teamwork that brought the entire squad together.