Chris Brunt has urged every young player competing in this week’s Budget Energy SuperCupNI to “dream big” as they chase opportunities that could shape their footballing futures.
The Northern Ireland legend officially launched the 43rd Budget Energy SuperCupNI in front of thousands of players, coaches, families and supporters at Coleraine Showgrounds on Sunday evening.
Brunt, who represented Northern Ireland at the tournament in 2003, went on to enjoy an outstanding career for club and country. Looking back on his own journey, he believes this week’s competition could prove life-changing for many of those taking part.
“I think you’ve got to dream big and just get on with it,” said the former West Bromwich Albion captain.
“Football has changed a lot since I was a kid. It’s so much more structured now with academies, training schedules and everything that goes with it.
“We used to train once a week and play on a Saturday. Now, young players are on structured programmes and, obviously, the better players have access to more opportunities and support than we had.
“But, as a young kid, football was all about the freedom to go out and express yourself. That was probably the best part about it.
“As you move into senior football and professional careers, you can get caught up in winning games, earning contracts and everything that comes with it.
“If they can strip all that away, enjoy being 12 or 13 years old and focus on playing football, it’s the best feeling in the world.
“I wouldn’t want to tell too many people to set huge expectations. I think you’ve just got to enjoy it for what it is, try your best, do well and see where it takes you.”
Brunt believes the tournament offers local players a unique opportunity to test themselves against some of the world’s leading academies while catching the eye of scouts and coaches.
“They have to go out, enjoy themselves and give everything because that’s why they’re here,” he said.
“If it’s a county team, they’ve been picked because they’re among the best players in their county. If they’re playing for one of the top Irish League clubs, they’ve earned that opportunity too.
“This is a chance to showcase what they can do against some of the biggest clubs from across the UK and around the world. It’s a fantastic stage.
“Opportunities come from tournaments like this. Sometimes all a player needs is one opportunity and someone willing to give them a chance.
“This week could change the lives of some of these young players if they’re fortunate enough to perform well and help their teams.
“It’s a huge platform for everyone, especially the local teams. They get the chance to show what they can do against some of the best young players in Europe and the UK.”
Brunt created memories of his own during the 2003 tournament, with one match in particular remaining unforgettable.
“That was my first experience of playing in what was the Milk Cup, so I was a bit older than most players when they first got involved,” he recalled.
“I didn’t get the chance to play in the younger age groups, but playing Brazil at Windsor Park was pretty special.
“I think that’s the only time I’ve ever played against a Brazilian team, so that’s always the game that stands out from the week.
“I think Fernandinho was the only Brazilian player who went on to become a global star, although I’m sure plenty of the others went on to have careers back home.
“He was an outstanding player and, obviously, went on to have a fantastic career with Manchester City.
“We had a few lads in our team who went on to play senior international football as well. Steven Davis, Sammy Clingan and Michael McGovern all had terrific careers, and there were plenty of others who went on to enjoy long careers in the Irish League.”
Returning to officially open this year’s tournament held particular significance for Brunt following the passing of his father-in-law earlier this year.
“It was especially poignant to be asked back this year after my father-in-law passed away earlier this year,” he said.
“He was Treasurer of the County Down teams and was incredibly passionate about the Budget Energy SuperCupNI.
“It came as a huge shock to us in March. He did so much work behind the scenes for the County Down teams. That was just who he was. He was also a fantastic public speaker and would probably be embarrassed hearing me say all this about him.
“So, it made it even more special to be invited back this year. It just highlights how important the Budget Energy SuperCupNI is to so many people.
“I’ve been back a few times over the years to watch games and take in the atmosphere. It’s such a brilliant tournament and everyone seems to enjoy themselves. I certainly did when I was a kid.”
The 2026 Budget Energy SuperCupNI is proudly supported by headline partner Budget Energy, alongside a valued network of partners including Tourism NI, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Sterling Insurance, Creagh Concrete, Uhlsport, KLIR, IDS Accountants, Tesco, The Premier League, TrustFord, 247.TV and BuyTicketApp.
For more information on the Budget Energy SuperCupNI, visit www.supercupni.com
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For further information please contact:
AY.
Russell Lever
Mob: 07841676976
Email: russell@ay.studio
