Football NSW announces squads for 2026 NAIDOC Cup
Football NSW is delighted to announce its squads for the 2026 NAIDOC Cup, set to be held at the Lake Macquarie Regional Football Facility, the home of Northern NSW Football, from Tuesday 29 September to Thursday 1 October.
The annual tournament will once again bring together Football NSW and Northern NSW Football, with the two Member Federations going head-to-head across three days of football while celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and communities.
Football NSW and Northern NSW Football will field male and female teams across the Under 14 and Under 16 age groups, with squads made up of talented First Nations players from across the state.
The tournament will also continue to provide opportunities for First Nations coaches and referees, creating representative pathways both on and off the pitch.
After Northern NSW Football claimed the NAIDOC Cup in 2025, Football NSW will travel to Lake Macquarie determined to win back the trophy in 2026.
Football NSW Diversity, Inclusion and Club Development Coordinator Ellie Kerr said the NAIDOC Cup remains an important opportunity to celebrate First Nations culture and strengthen connections through football.
“The NAIDOC Cup is a valued opportunity to celebrate the rich cultures, histories and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” Kerr said.
“It brings communities together through sport and creates a space to strengthen connections, show respect and recognise the importance of culture both on and off the field.
“We are excited to travel to Lake Macquarie for this year’s NAIDOC Cup and take part in such a meaningful event. We are looking forward to the challenge and are eager to bring the trophy back this year.”
The NAIDOC Cup continues to provide a meaningful representative pathway for First Nations footballers across NSW, while celebrating culture, connection and community through the game.
Football NSW congratulates all players and coaches on their selections and wishes them all the best for the 2026 tournament.
See the full list of Football NSW NAIDOC Cup players below.
Under 16 Boys
Under 16 Girls
Under 14 Boys
Under 14 Girls
