The Caritas Cup is not simply about finishing top of a league table. The report says each participating school made a donation to enter, with further funds raised through a bake stall and additional contributions on the day.
That gives the tournament a different character from a conventional school competition. The football remains central, but it becomes a way to build relationships between schools and connect pupils with a cause beyond the pitch.
The event at Holy Rood High School reportedly featured a round-robin format, with final positions decided by league standings rather than a knockout final. That approach gives every team meaningful playing time and rewards consistency across the day.
St Margaret’s Academy of Livingston is reported to have won the boys’ east of Scotland competition. Schools including St Columba’s High, St Mungo’s, St Andrew’s, St Kentigern’s, St Augustine’s and St Thomas’ were also involved, while a girls’ tournament took place alongside the boys’ event.
The breadth of the field underlines the competition’s growing reach. Created by four friends from Airdrie, the Caritas Cup began in the Motherwell Diocese before expanding to schools across Edinburgh, Paisley and the wider region.
Monsignor Jeremy Milne praised the collective effort, saying: “Congratulations to the winners, both boys and girls, it has been a brilliant event. Thanks to all those who organised it all. It was such a good example of how our schools can come together.”
That message may be the tournament’s lasting result. The next challenge will be to build on this east of Scotland edition, attract more schools and keep the balance between competitive football, faith and community fundraising.