NSW teams take out the National Indigenous Football Championships
The 2017 National Indigenous Football Championships took place over the weekend as Eora United defeated defending champions Queensland Warrigal Dingoes 1-0 in the Men’s competition and the Illawarra Bungarras won their second championship defeating Newcastle All Stars 4-3 in the Women’s competition.
The second annual National Indigenous Football Championships took place from the 2nd to the 4th of November at Ison Park, Nowra hosted the best footballers from around the country with the likes of ex-Hyundai A-League player James Brown and up and coming star Shadeene Evans joining the championships.
The Men’s final was a rematch of last year with a State of Origin NSW v Queensland, however this year Eora United was able to take the championship through a penalty awarded in the first half against the Warrigal Dingoes.
The Women’s final was filled with plenty of goals with the defending champions Illawarra Bungarra’s edging past the Newcastle All Stars in a tight match up.
Teams travelled from Dubbo, Mt Isa, Tamworth, Lismore and even Cape York to play in the national championships that continues to grow each year.
The first indigenous footballer to play for the Australian national team John Moriarty attended the championships to enjoy the spectacle of talent on show.
The National indigenous football championships is about showcasing sporting abilities of indigenous players and creating a future pathway for indigenous kids and youths.
It also promotes healthy lifestyles, no alcohol/drugs, importance of education, cultural awareness and integration, respect on and off the field. This year involved a clinic for Under 12 boys and girls with Western Sydney Wanderers.
Football NSW would like to congratulate all teams who competed in the tournament, Bernie Mcleod and the Wreck Bay Sharks Football club and Shoalhaven Football Association for putting on a wonderful tournament for a second consecutive year.
