1000 Juniors to kick goals on Sunshine Coast

This year's tournament will showcase Under 12 boys, Under 12 girls, and Under 13 girls teams, with more than 1,000 players expected to compete across three action-packed days.

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci said they are thrilled to return to the Sunshine Coast for the 2025 FQ Junior Cup. 

"Last year's event was a fantastic success, and we can't wait to see more young talent take the field this year," Mr Cavallucci said.

"The 2025 FQ Junior Cup will bring together the state's top regional FQ Academy teams and invited South East Queensland FQ Academy clubs, as they all battle it out for the prestigious FQ Junior Cup Championship titles.

"The event is a key milestone of the FQ Academy program, providing players with further opportunities for talent identification and development tracking by FQ coaching and technical staff as they progress through the only Football Australia recognised football pathway in Queensland.

"This tournament is an essential platform for player development, as it's not just about competing; it's about offering our players more competitive match time and helping them continue developing in their football journey.

"We're also excited that the FQ Junior Cup will set the stage for the WinterFest25 carnival, which will be held at the same venue just days after the FQ Junior Cup concludes, with both events proudly supported by the Sunshine Coast Council and Visit Sunshine Coast as they continue to support the next generation of football stars.

"We look forward to welcoming all players, coaches, referees, and supporters to Maroochydore for an exciting few days of football, and we also encourage everyone to take the opportunity to explore the beautiful Sunshine Coast and all it has to offer."

Sunshine Coast Strong Economy Councillor Terry Landsberg said the FQ Junior Cup would foster sport development opportunities for the state's top junior teams.

"These talented kids could end up playing for Australia in the very near future," Cr Landsberg said.

"This is particularly important given the Sunshine Coast is a Co-Host City for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

"We are proposed to host nine Olympic and Paralympic events including preliminary football matches at Sunshine Coast Stadium.

"This a great platform to welcome families to our region and prepare them for a positive experience, to compete and develop their skills in a safe, welcoming environment.

"Off the field, they'll get to enjoy the many attractions and experiences perfect for families, like Australia Zoo, Aussie World and Sealife Sunshine Coast."