Last Tuesday, 21 May, was no normal day at the BVB Evonik football academy, as the training complex was converted into the colourful host venue for the BVB Primary School Cup. 

Several primary schools in Dortmund had the opportunity to register enthusiastic young football fans in the first four age grades to take part in this ''school day,'' unlike any other. Squads comprised of 12 children were entered into the competition, facing off against one another in matches lasting from 10 to 12 minutes. Several of the teams were even able to count on the vocal encouragement of fan clubs which had travelled through to support their schools. The BVB club mascot Emma was of course in attendance at this memorable event. She even brought a friend along with her: Kumpel Fips, the mascot of REWE Dortmund. The two of them teamed up to greet children as they arrived, plus they even managed to join in in a couple of games as well!

As is the case at all events organised by the academy, a special set of rules were in place. However, a referee was nowhere to be seen. Instead, this responsibility fell on the aspiring young footballers. Contentious decisions were to be resolved by means of the popular children's game ''tic tac toe.'' With such an effective system in place, the video assistant referee was also deemed surplus to requirements. During the intervals between games, the young participants were able to recharge with fresh fruit and vegetables available at various stalls set out by BVB club partner REWE. What is more, drinks were provided by the company Hassia Mineralquelle, who made sure that the school pupils were kept hydrated by handing out bottles of Rosbacher Water and sparkling apple juice. Members of the BVB Kids Club team invited school pupils to join in games of football bowling, as well as other fun-packed activities. It was clear that all children present were being swept along in a wave of Black & Yellow enthusiasm. Even Borussini, the BVB children's magazine, got in on the act, organising a table football competition in which all schools pupils were able to take part. 

Sparda Bank was proud to sponsor the BVB Primary School Cup and award the tournament's Fair Play Prize. To highlight the importance of fair play in sport, the bank donated a check to each school which took part in the competition. The prizes awarded to the tournament winners, as well as those which finished in the top four, were truly worthy of the Bundesliga. The first-placed side were awarded highly sought-after tickets for BVB home matches next season, the second-placed side received a free football course at the BVB Evonik football academy, the third-placed side were gifted an exclusive tour of Signal Iduna Park while the fourth-placed side received a special school bag filled with BVB goodies. But at the end of the day, it wasn't just those that made it onto the podium that ought to be considered the winners of this special event. Everyone present on the day was a winner! Despite the rainy weather, this was a day defined by fair play, team spirit and enthusiasm for football. It's most definitely fair to say that the first-ever BVB Primary School Cup ought to be considered a runaway success!