Street Soccer’s Summer Series got underway in Ardrossan, bringing together players from across the country for a day of football, friendship and fun.
Held at Winton Rovers FC on Thursday 28th May, the event marked the first of four festivals taking place across Scotland this summer. Supported through Sport Scotland’s Summer of Sport 2026 funding, the first of our Summer Series brought together more than 200 players, creating opportunities to build confidence, make new connections and celebrate the achievements of people involved in Street Soccer programmes across Scotland.
From the moment participants arrived, there was a real sense of excitement and anticipation. The day began with an energetic Zumba warm-up, setting the tone for what became a fantastic day.
Throughout the day, participants took part in a football festival, reconnecting with familiar faces and meeting new people from across the programmes. While there was plenty of action on the pitch, the day was about more than football, providing an opportunity to build relationships, share experiences and celebrate achievements.
Players enjoyed food and refreshments at Winton Rovers, with catering provided by Doon the Beach, a charitable organisation based in Stevenston. An ice cream van also proved a popular addition, creating a real festival atmosphere and giving everyone the chance to relax and socialise between games.
The event also highlighted the impact of Street Soccer’s work across Ayrshire. Since launching in April 2025, the Ardrossan drop-in programme has delivered more than 50 sessions, welcomed nearly 600 attendances and supported 31 registered players, with nine participants successfully completing an SCQF qualification. Alongside the Ayr programme, Street Soccer staff have provided more than 400 hours of direct support to players, including over 50 hours of one-to-one mental health support.
To round off a memorable day, players, staff and volunteers headed down to Ardrossan beach to cool off in the sunshine.
The success of the Ardrossan festival has set the tone for the rest of the Summer Series, with events still to come in Dundee, Kirkcaldy and Alloa. As the series continues throughout the summer, more players will have the opportunity to come together, celebrate achievements and create lasting memories.
Thanks to the support of Sport Scotland’s Summer of Sport 2026 funding the Summer Series is helping create opportunities for people across Scotland to take part, connect with others and experience the benefits of being part of the Street Soccer wider community.
