The 2019 – and fourth – edition of the National Indigenous Football Championships was held between October 31 and November 2nd at the South Nowra Sporting Complex in New South Wales.
Running in November each year, the tournament showcases the abilities of indigenous players from all around the country and creates pathway opportunities for indigenous children and youths, all while promoting healthy, alcohol-and-drug free lifestyles.
Perennial ambassadors include Matilda Kyah Simon, ex-Socceroo Jade North, and respected Elder of Indigenous Football, Harry Williams, among others.
During the course of the tournament a new Indigenous academy of excellence was launched in south western Sydney – the Charles Perkins Soccer Academy. The Academy will focus on recruiting and nurturing future indigenous football stars from across the continent.
This year’s competition featured teams from Peak Hill, Kempsey, Canberra, Batemans Bay, Wallaga Lake, Tamworth, Dubbo, Armidale, Newcastle, Grafton, Cairns, Illawarra and the Shoalhaven.
Each year the tournament kicks off with a MiniRoos Skills Session run by Football NSW Development Officers.
All Ages Women’s and Men’s competitions were run, with two groups of seven teams participating in the Women’s comp, as well as Under 14 Boys and Girls competitions and a showpiece Elders Walking Football match.
In the U14 Girls category, Djuwin Waimburra defeated the Dolphins 5-2. Ex-Socceroo Jade North was on hand for the presentation.
The Illawarra Bungarras claimed the title of All Ages Women champions for a fourth successive year, running out 3-2 winners against the Newcastle Allstars. Brittany Ring was awarded the Kyah Simon Golden Boot, while Jess Garrett was named MVP of the competition.
Another highlight of the championship this year was a celebrity match.
A noteworthy feature of the tournament is the stunning native art that adorn the jerseys, with teams pulling out all stops to create memorable designs.
More information on this annual event can be found at the National Indigenous Football Championships Facebook page.
