Ardmore Hosts Mini 'World Cup'

By Gan Matthews, NEWS 9

ARDMORE, Oklahoma -- Those who couldn't make it to South Africa for the World Cup can see the mini World Cup in Ardmore.

All this week, two dozen kids from 4-year-olds to 16-year-olds have been improving their soccer skills under the tutelage of three coaches from England.

Challenger British Soccer Camp coaches Steve Sykes, Phil King and Ben Gardner divided the kids into teams representing England, Ireland, Poland and other countries appearing in the World Cup. The kids came dressed in the counties' jerseys and colored their faces and hair as well.

"There's so much potential here. It's just the enthusiasm the kids bring. They put 110 percent into everything they do, which is great for a coach. That's all you can ask really," said Ben Gardner, one of the coach with Challenger Sports.

The team representing Ireland emerged as the winner.

The Coaches and kids are well aware that the U.S. and England play each other in the real World Cup on Saturday.

"The USA is gonna win," 8-year-old Amie Perry said.

"We tried to brainwash them a little bit to England, but as soon as the parents get involved, they switch them back to the USA," Gardner said.

The coaches said they will watch the U.S., England game in Ardmore Saturday before they head to a new soccer camp in Nebraska.