Girona Genuine Wins Inaugural Copa Tricolor Mixed Ability Tournament in Encamp

Girona Genuine won the inaugural Copa Tricolor Mixed Ability tournament organised by FC Andorra Genuine on Sunday at Prada de Moles in Encamp, drawing five teams in an event focused on inclusion and shared experiences rather than results.

The competition brought together FC Andorra Genuine, Girona, Real Sociedad, Olot, and Atlètic Lleida on two football-7 pitches. Played in a league format starting at 9:30am, teams earned three points for wins, with ties resolved by head-to-head records, goal difference, and goals scored. Girona topped the table after securing victories in all their matches.

Helena Ardanaz, head of FC Andorra Genuine, emphasised the Mixed Ability setup, where each team included two players without disabilities alongside those with intellectual disabilities. "This format makes it more inclusive without segmenting participants," she said, noting its growing use in initiatives like LaLiga Genuine, which FC Andorra joined in 2022 and now features 46 teams.

Arbitration added to the inclusivity, handled by young referees trained by Fundación Alex who have diverse abilities. "Everyone feels involved," Ardanaz added. The day prioritised participation and integration over competition, with players gaining confidence from home support—many families rarely attend away games—and interactions like rival fan encounters.

Local figures joined the festivities: Social Affairs Minister Trini Marín performed the honorary kick-off, guided by FC Andorra's Jordi Caetano; Sports Secretary of State Alain Cabanes offered congratulations; and the club's mascot Tamarro delighted participants. Guests from visiting teams praised the event. Real Sociedad coach Asier Borrego called it "super beautiful" for visibility and player joy, saying they would travel every weekend for such occasions. Girona staff member Albert Mateos described it as a "fantastic day of convivencia and fun," aligning with their mixed-player philosophy.

All participants received medals and trophies, with final awards presented at halftime of FC Andorra's match against Las Palmas nearby. Ardanaz highlighted the project's growth and teased FC Andorra's potential trip to the World Cup in Houston in July.