He himself played in three Gothia Cups with his team before moving to Hammarby in 1978. His career has since included coaching roles at BK Häcken in the Allsvenskan, managing the Under-17s, and eight successful years as manager of the Swedish women’s national team.
At the 50th anniversary, Upsala IF faced their rivals Sirius. The match was played as walking football.
– Back then, the match against Sirius was the big derby. We were very happy when we beat them, now 50 years later.
A particular memory from the 1976 Gothia Cup was when Upsala IF faced a Danish team.
– It was the first time we’d played a team from another country. It was brilliant, says Peter Gerhardsson.
Peter Gerhardsson took part in three Gothia Cups with his team, Upsala IF.
– Everyone in the team really remembers when we were at Gothia, now 50 years later. What was particularly fun was that it was a team I’d been playing for since I was seven.
However, the most important thing for the future wasn’t the victory, but the overall experience, according to Peter Gerhardsson. It was getting to set off together, visiting Liseberg, staying at a school, build a team.
– In sport, that aspect – making friends – is often underestimated when we’re developing athletes. It’s an important social element for players, says Peter Gerhardsson.
The match against Sirius left them wanting more.
– Perhaps the Gothia Cup could be expanded to include a walking football tournament for us 60+ who took part as youngsters, laughs Peter Gerhardsson.
– The competitive spirit is still there. It was frustrating not to be able to run, so we walked quickly. I was really sore afterwards.