Community Memorial Cup 2025
Honouring Legends, Inspiring Generations
By Emdad Rahman
Stepney Green will once again host one of East London’s most meaningful fixtures in the grassroots football calendar as the Community Memorial Cup 2025 kicks off on Sunday, 28 September.
Organised by Newark Youth London, the tournament returns for its second edition following the hugely successful debut in 2024.
This year’s event celebrates the memory of two inspirational figures whose lives left an indelible mark on sport, education, and community life: Jilu Meah Mannan and Shaykh Fahimul Anam.
Remembering Jilu Meah Mannan
For over four decades, Jilu was a constant presence in the East End sporting landscape. From managing the legendary Eastenders Snooker Club to donning the colours of PYO, Stars of East End, and Sporting Bengal, he championed participation in sport as a means to foster discipline and community spirit.
A prominent member of the UK Bangladeshi Golf Society, he also worked tirelessly to open doors for the next generation, proving that sport could break barriers and create new opportunities.
Remembering Shaykh Fahimul Anam
Known affectionately as Shaykh Fahim, his influence stretched far beyond the football pitch. A scholar, educator, and visionary, he was a driving force behind landmark institutions including Darul Ummah Masjid, Jamiatul Ummah, and the Unwind Summer School.
His initiatives such as Beacon Institute, Gift of Knowledge, and the Charity Boat Race reflected his commitment to knowledge, service, and social cohesion. Always volunteering his time with humility, he empowered young people to lead with purpose and integrity.
The Tournament
• Categories:
• Over 40s – 7-a side (Teams: Newark, MSC, REDs, Hawk & Eagle)
• Over 50s – 8 a side (Teams: Newark, Stepney, Eastenders, Friends of Fahim United)
• Format:
• 25 minute matches
• Roll on, roll-off substitutions with referee approval
• No slide tackles
• Round robin style with a winner takes all trophy to maximise charitable proceeds
• Special Fixture:
At 3.30pm, an exhibition match will pit Team Fahim against Team Jilu, a symbolic clash celebrating the legacies of the two honourees.
• Kick-off:
Opening speeches at 11.45am, first whistle at 12.15pm.
• Extras:
Refreshments will be available, with all proceeds going directly to charity.
For Newark Youth London, the Memorial Cup reflects their mission to engage disadvantaged young people in positive activities that nurture personal growth, social connection, and physical wellbeing. Working with over 1,000 beneficiaries annually, the charity uses sport as a tool for development and opportunity.
Speaking ahead of the tournament Forid Ahmed of Stepney Legends explained: “This tournament is about honouring the people who shaped our community and ensuring their values live on. Sport is just the vehicle – the real win is bringing people together and building a legacy of service.”
With the ball set to roll on Stepney Green’s pristine 4G pitch, the Community Memorial Cup 2025 promises a celebration through football of two lives lived with passion, service, and inspiration.
