FOR youngsters who took part in the first ever Mariners Community Sixes, it was an experience they'll never forget.
Over 130 school children descended on Blundell Park for the inaugural competition, which pitted the area's schools against each other in fun-filled tournaments across two age-groups.
Parents and family members packed into the Main Stand to watch in the action-packed event, which was jointly organised by Grimsby Town and the Telegraph.
In the Years Three and Four tournament, the team from Wybers Wood Academy came out on top after winning all their games against teams from Coomb Briggs Primary, Laceby Stanford, Humberston Cloverfields, Elliston Primary and St James.
And teacher Rob Sanders said taking part in the tournament was an experience his pupils would remember forever.
He told Young Stars: "To play on Blundell Park is an opportunity that doesn't come along every day so it was brilliant that the Grimsby Telegraph and the club gave them that experience.
"They really enjoyed the day and playing against the other schools.
"The tournament was the first time that this group has played together, so to win all our games was some achievement.
"It was great experience for me as their teacher as well. This is the first time that I've worked with these boys, so to see them enjoying their day and seeing them win, was fantastic for me as well.
"Obviously it's all about the enjoyment at these things, but to win was a great experience for the lads – they'll never forget it."
He continued: "The standard of football was high and I was really impressed with the other teams. It really showcased the talent that we have in the area.
"A lot of the lads that were playing aren't signed for Town and haven't been picked up yet, so it was a great opportunity for them to show what they can do.
"It was a great event and we'll definitely be back if it's put on again next year, we were really impressed with the whole day.
"If it is put on again, I think it will be even bigger and better next year – other schools will see how well it was run and how much the kids enjoyed it and they'll want to be part of it. It will just grow and grow."
Wybers' top-scorer Owen Doy, 9, added: "It was a really good day and we all enjoyed it.
"I come to Blundell Park to watch Grimsby Town all the time, so to get to play here was great.
"I'd like to take part again next year if it was held again."
