FC UNITED POWERED BY IDA
SUPER CUP NORTHERN IRELAND
Boys 2009 (Arrive Friday 25th July and depart Saturday August 2nd, 2025).
Girls 2011 (Arrive Friday 25th July and depart Friday August 1st, 2025).
WHAT IS FC UNITED?
Global Sports Experiences presents FC United, an All-Star Program meticulously crafted to bring together individual players from across North America. Our program is tailored for elite players aiming to compete internationally, offering them a chance to join all-star teams and participate in prestigious global events. Addressing a market need, we provide these talented individuals an exclusive platform for global soccer exposure, far beyond domestic play or teams with limited international reach.
We provide a full developmental pathway to support your individual goals. Your journey does not end on the last day of the tournament but is rather the starting point on your journey, whether that is to play on the international stage at a top professional club or compete at college our staff are there to assist.
We work with the best people to ensure the best preparation that delivers the best performances both on and off the field of play.
THE FC UNITED DIFFERENCE
- Managed registration program by expert GSE Staff including all operations and logistics.
- GSE managed flight program, fundraising opportunities, insurance, accommodations, transportations, dietary and medical needs.
- Options to add parents and supports to join the event with discounts for family members.
- Communications with your FC United Team and Coach before departure to prepare for the event.
- Preparation matches and training before the start of the tournament with your team and FC United Coach.
- Participation in Elite International Tournaments and Academy Tours.
- Full time FC United coaching staff travel with the group for the entire experience.
- GSE Expert support after the event to manage further player pathways and development.
- Supervision by local bilingual expert staff on the ground 24/7
FC UNITED POWERED BY IDA
Our FC United program is 'powered by IDA' . The International Development Academy provides once-in-a-lifetime experiences for aspiring youth soccer players. The IDA offers elite training and competition, exposure and access to the best recruitment for your soccer journey with off the field education and support.
IDA currently has academies in England, Rome, Spain and the USA with notable alumni like Jeremy DeLeon who is currently starring for Real Madrid in La Liga. For more information about the IDA program or to set up a meeting with a member of the team please visit the website at the following link
WHY GLOBAL SPORTS EXPERIENCES
WHY SUPERCUP NI?
- Compete in One of the Most Elite Youth Tournaments: The SuperCup NI, formerly the NI Milk Cup, started in 1983 and has grown to become one of the most renowned youth tournaments in the world. The tournament is held across a number of towns and venues, based largely around the country's scenic North Coast.
- The History: The inaugural tournament took place in 1983 with eight teams from Northern Ireland and an equal number of visitors including a team from Algeria and a side from Coleraine's twin town of la Roche-sur-Yon in France. Forty years on, the tournament has attracted many of the giants in world football including Manchester United, Liverpool FC, Chelsea FC, Arsenal FC, FC Barcelona, Espanyol, Valencia, FC Bayern Munich, Glasgow Celtic, Glasgow Rangers, the list goes on.
- The Magic of Northern Ireland: After thrilling matches, teams can explore the vibrant city of Belfast, where the Titanic Museum stands as a testament to the region's rich maritime history. Venture to the breathtaking Giant's Causeway, a natural wonder of hexagonal basalt columns rising dramatically from the sea, or marvel at the rugged beauty of the North Coast. Whether it's tracing the footsteps of ancient legends along the Causeway Coastal Route or soaking in the lively atmosphere of Belfast's streets, Northern Ireland's enchanting attractions provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories both on and off the pitch.
- Professional Development: Enhance your team's professional development through participation in the SuperCup NI Tournament. Learn from top coaches and gain valuable insights into tactics, strategies, and game management. The tournament provides a platform for your team to refine their skills, improve teamwork, and build resilience in a competitive environment, ultimately preparing them for future success both on and off the field.
TENTATIVE 2025 SCHEDULE
Day 1 - Thursday July 24, 2025
Departure from your International airport to Dublin, Ireland.
Day 2 - Friday July 25, 2025
Arrival in Dublin International Airport and meet GSE Tour Director and Staff. Transfer from Airport to accommodations for both players and supporters. Bus will drop players off at their location then parents and supporters will be taken to their hotel. After dinner players will take part in an evening Training Session with your FC United coaching staff.
Day 3 - Saturday July 26, 2025
After breakfast we will have a morning friendly game against local competition to get ready for the tournament. After lunch we will then drive north to the incredible coastline to visit the famous Giants Causeway.
Day 4 - Sunday July 27, 2025
Players will have a morning practice session followed by lunch. In the afternoon our teams will then have option for a light training session to go over set piece play or may even have another friendly game. That evening we will take part in the Super Cup NI (SCNI) Opening Parade & Ceremony. All teams and players will march through the town of Coleraine cheered on by the entire town before making their way to the stadium to officially open the tournament.
Day 5 - Monday July 28, 2025
Day 1 of Super Cup NI as our teams play their first group game. If kick off is in the morning we will have free time in the afternoon to relax or have a light cool down session. After dinner the team can travel into Coleraine to watch the Elite section game at the stadium.
Day 6 - Tuesday July 29, 2025
Day 2 of SCNI with game 2 from our group play. based on the schedule we may have time to travel into Belfast city center for free time or to visit the Titanic Museum in downtown.
Day 7 - Wednesday July 30, 2025
Final day of group games to determine the next round of fixtures and which trophy our team will be competing for. After the game we may have the option to travel to the seaside town of Portrush or Portstewart and enjoy the beach or the local fairground rides.
Day 8 - Thursday July 31, 2025
On day 4 of the tournament the boys teams will play their semi-finals against their seeded opposition for the chance to play in the final for one of the trophies on offer. based on the final result we will either compete for a trophy or play in the 3rd place game.
Day 9 - Friday Aug 1, 2025
Last day of the tournament and it's time to play for a trophy or 3rd place. After the game ends players have the option to leave with their parents and supporters or head to watch the finals at the Coleraine Stadium between top teams from international academies like Manchester United.
Day 10 - Saturday Aug 2, 2025
Head to Dublin airport and departure back home with memories to last a lifetime.
Day 1 - Thursday July 24, 2025
Departure from your International airport to Dublin, Ireland.
Day 2 - Friday July 25, 2025
Arrival in Dublin International Airport and meet GSE Tour Director and Staff. Transfer from Airport to accommodations for both players and supporters. Bus will drop players off at their location then parents and supporters will be taken to their hotel. After dinner players will take part in an evening Training Session with your FC United coaching staff.
Day 3 - Saturday July 26, 2025
After breakfast we will have a morning friendly game against local competition to get ready for the tournament. After lunch we will then take a walking tour of Belfast city center with the parents and supporters.
Day 4 - Sunday July 27, 2025
Players will have a morning practice session followed by lunch. In the afternoon our teams will then have option for a light training session to go over set piece play or may even have another friendly game. That evening we will take part in the Super Cup NI (SCNI) Opening Parade & Ceremony. All teams and players will march through the town of Coleraine cheered on by the entire town before making their way to the stadium to officially open the tournament.
Day 5 - Monday July 28, 2025
Day 1 of Super Cup NI as our teams play their first group game. If kick off is in the morning we will have free time in the afternoon to relax or have a light cool down session.
Day 6 - Tuesday July 29, 2025
Day 2 of SCNI with game 2 from our group play. Based on the schedule we may have time to travel into Belfast city center for free time or to visit the Titanic Museum in downtown.
Day 7 - Wednesday July 30, 2025
Final day of group games to determine the next round of fixtures and which trophy our team will be competing for. After the game we will travel to the Northern coastline to visit Giants Causeway Northern Irelands iconic heritage site.
Day 8 - Thursday July 31, 2025
On day 4 of the tournament with the team's chance to play in the finals for a trophy. After the game ends players have the option to leave with their parents and supporters.
Day 9 - Friday Aug 1, 2025
Head to Dublin airport and departure back home with memories to last a lifetime.
** MORE DETAILS AND SPECIFICS WILL BE RELEASED ONCE THE TEAM IS CONFIRMED.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM GSE
INCLUSIONS & PACKAGES
- 8-nights accommodation at the University of Ulster Coleraine for players. Parents and Supporters will stay in a top class Belfast city center hotel about 45 minutes from the University. Parents and supporters will be double occupancy with option to have a single room for an additional fee. Players will have their own rooms with ensuite bathroom and communal areas.
- Players will receive full board of 3 meals a day at the University accommodation. Parents and supporters will receive breakfast only at the hotel and a group dinner on arrival at the hotel.
- Players will receive pre tournament training sessions with FC America staff and play in a friendly game. During the tournament we will play 3 group games that will determine our seeding and which trophy we then compete for. After group games we will have a semi final followed by either a final or 3rd place play off.
- Transportation for all internal travel including scheduled pick up and drop off at the airport and travel from Belfast to all games for parents and supporters.
- Sightseeing tours to the Titanic Museum and the Giants Causeway. Parents and Supporters will also get to enjoy a walking tour of Belfast city center.
- Your own international GSE Director and Staff travel with your group and are available 24/7.
- Payment schedule to help spread cost and family discounts.
- Fundraising opportunities and financial assistance. We want to ensure everyone has the opportunity to travel.
- All travel coordinated by your personal GSE travel specialist.
- GSE has full liability insurance and we also provide access to individual travel insurance plans including cancel for any reason options.
NOT INCLUDED
- FC United playing uniform which needs to be ordered through our supplier Wegotsoccer at an approximate cost of $250 and includes home and away uniform, full tracksuit and training jersey.
- Additional activities and events not listed in the schedule.
- International Flight, approximate cost of $900.00 based on recent fares.
- Travel Insurance. GSE works with Trip Mate travel insurance to provide options including Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) policies. You can find more information on the registration page.
- Tips and gratuities for your driver and tour staff.
Cost per participant: $2,250 for players and $1,895 for parents and supporters.
** Please note that a third family member will receive a $100 USD discount with the fourth or any additional receiving a $200 USD discount. This will be applied at registration.
- 7-nights accommodation at a hotel for the players that will be assigned by the tournament. Parents and Supporters will stay in a top class Belfast city center hotel about 15 min from the players. Parents and supporters will be double occupancy with option to have a single room for an additional fee. Players will roommate with another player and have ensuite bathroom.
- Players will receive full board of 3 meals a day. Parents and supporters will receive breakfast only at the hotel and a group dinner on arrival at the hotel.
- Players will receive pre tournament training sessions with FC America staff and play in a friendly game. During the tournament we will play 3 group games that will determine our seeding and which trophy we then compete for.
- Transportation for all internal travel including scheduled pick up and drop off at the airport and travel from Belfast to all games for parents and supporters.
- Sightseeing tours to the Titanic Museum, Giants Causeway and also enjoy a walking tour of Belfast city center.
- Your own international GSE Director and Staff travel with your group and are available 24/7.
- Payment schedule to help spread cost and family discounts.
- Fundraising opportunities and financial assistance. We want to ensure everyone has the opportunity to travel.
- All travel coordinated by your personal GSE travel specialist.
- GSE has full liability insurance and we also provide access to individual travel insurance plans including cancel for any reason options.
NOT INCLUDED
- FC United playing uniform which needs to be ordered through our supplier Wegotsoccer at an approximate cost of $250 and includes home and away uniform, full tracksuit and training jersey.
- Additional activities and events not listed in the schedule.
- International Flight, approximate cost of $900.00 based on recent fares.
- Travel Insurance. GSE works with Trip Mate travel insurance to provide options including Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) policies. You can find more information on the registration page.
- Tips and gratuities for your driver and tour staff.
Cost per participant: $2,050 for players and $1,895 for parents and supporters.
** Please note that a third family member will receive a $100 USD discount with the fourth or any additional receiving a $200 USD discount. This will be applied at registration.
APPLICATION: Once you submit your application to a representative from Global Sports Experiences will reach out to discuss the program in more detail. We will also speak with your coach and check out any video links you send. We select players based on their on field and off field abilities and want to ensure this is the right fit for you and your development as much as what you can offer the team.
REGISTRATION: If successful you will be invited to register follow the step by step guide to register and secure your place. We have limited spaces for players and their supporters and once rosters are complete we close registration. You will be required to make a deposit payment per person you expect to attend to hold your place. GSE will continue to send out communications and information via the registration page.
COMMUNICATION: Unfortunately, because the players are being selected from different states and even countries it is not possible to have a training session or face to face meeting before departure. However, as we get closer to your departure date we will set up a ZOOM meeting with the group to go over final preparations and to meet the coach. This last meeting will include details on what to pack, hotel confirmations, confirmed games, sightseeing events and much more. We will also provide details about the GSE staff who will be managing the day to day events and will meet you on your arrival.
Once you have registered for the event we will provide you with a roster number. You will then need to purchase your FC United player's uniform package from our apparel provider.
Players will require the following FC United items which need to be purchased at an additional cost:
- Home Jersey.
- Away Jersey.
- Training Jersey.
- Socks x2.
- Shorts x2.
- Full Tracksuit.
Our apparel provider may recommend other items such as bags, rain jackets and coats but these are not compulsory to purchase.
HOTELS AND TRANSPORTATION
- Accommodation: FC United programs will have various accommodation options based on your respective tournament or event. We may stay in colleges or 4 star hotels and players might have single rooms, double occupancy or even triples. Parents and Supporters will be provided accommodation based on double occupancy but single rooms might be available for a supplemental fee. For some events players and their parents may be able to room together. During the registration process we may collect preferences for room mates amongst the players. You can find specific details regarding your accommodation on the registration page.
- Transportation: We will provide transportation for all activities listed in the schedule. For airport arrivals and departures we will provide transportation based on the group flight times or the most convenient time for the majority of the group.
- Food: Full details about the meals provided as part of your event can be found on the respective registration page. For many of our events we will have full board but some will have a breakfast and then one other meal to allow for free time during the day for sightseeing or cultural events.
- Dietary Accommodations: Participants with dietary restrictions will find meals tailored to their needs available during the trip. Closer to the departure date, we will collect information regarding any allergies or dietary preferences to ensure everyone's needs are met.
HOW FLEXIBLE IS THE SCHEDULE?
- Please note that the schedule can and probably will change based on schedule for our games, weather and other unforeseen circumstances. However, everything we state will happen in your schedule will take place but the order may change.
- As we get closer to our departure we may provide additional programming such as live professional games, sightseeing or other cultural events. As these are confirmed we will add them to the registration page. Some may require an additional fee which will be detailed on the registration page.
TRAVEL QUESTIONS
- Flight Options: GSE will detail on the registration page the time you are expected to arrive at your incoming international airport. You will be responsible for coordinating your meet up with the group based on the times provided to then start the itinerary. If we have enough players and their supporters traveling from one location we may arrange a group flight.
- Solo Travel: For any players traveling alone they may need a completed 'permission to travel form' or arrange to travel with a member of GSE Staff. Once at the event unaccompanied players will be under the guidance and supervision of our experienced staff, ensuring their safety and comfort throughout the journey.
- Passport Requirements: A valid passport is essential for travel. Please ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the departure date from the originating country
- Travel Protection Plan: GSE offers a comprehensive travel protection plan that covers a range of benefits including medical and dental treatment abroad, cancellation due to injury, sickness, or death of a family member, passport and visa protection, flight cancellation, loss of luggage and personal effects, and cancellation due to terrorist acts (as defined). For more information, please visit the following link. TripMate Travel Insurance
- Packing Essentials: Prepare for your adventure by packing essentials such as team uniforms, passport, cleats, sneakers, sandals, shin guards, refillable water bottle, backpack, casual clothing suitable for the weather, and any other personal items you may need.
- Cash Recommendations: While credit cards and ApplePay are widely accepted, it's advisable to carry some cash for added convenience during your travels.
- Language and Cultural Assistance: A GSE representative will be available 24/7 during the trip offering assistance for all travelers, specially to those that may not speak the language or are unfamiliar with the local culture.
- Extra Activities: There may be additional activities, at extra cost, offered to the group during your experience.
REGISTRATION QUESTIONS
- Installment Payments: GSE provides the convenience of paying via installment to ensure flexibility and ease of payment for our travelers.
- Financial Assistance and Scholarships: GSE offers a fundraising option through our exclusive partners, Vyoo, providing travelers with opportunities to seek financial assistance and scholarships for their journey.
- Cancellation and Refund Policy: If you need to cancel your participation, you should connect with GSE immediately via email or phone call. Certain fees will apply depending on your cancellation case, and will be calculated as of the date GSE receives written notice of cancellation.
Cancellation Fee Schedule:
- Minimum fee is $250 per person.
- 120 to 91 days before departure is 50% of the trip price.
- 90 to 46 days before departure is 75% of the trip price.
- 45 to 0 days prior to departure is 100% of the trip price.
Full reimbursement, minus minimum fee, will be applied in the case of:
- Travelers cannot travel because of a valid medical reason (e.g. illness, season ending injury).
- Traveler can be reimbursed fully outside conditions above, if full-paying replacement for the trip is found.
For more information contact
Nick Dunbar, Chief Operating Officer,
[email protected] or call/text 860-514-2912
or Enrico Ciuffetelli at [email protected] or call/text 347-744-2757.