The Inaugural National Indigenous Football Championships were successfully held in Nowra over the weekend in Nowra with the Illawarra Bungarra defeating Northern Nations 4-0 in the Open Women’s Division and SE QLD Dingoes defeating Eora United 2-1 in the Men’s Division.

 

Shakiah Tungai from Illawarra Bungarra was presented with the Kyah Simon Award for the Female Player of the Championships and Chris Swain from SE QLD Dingoes claimed the Jade North Award for the Male Player of the Championships.

 

Football Federation Australia CEO David Gallop attended the event and paid tribute to the organisers for putting on a fantastic tournament.

 

“I was really delighted to be at the Championships which were a true celebration of football and Indigenous culture. The atmosphere around the grounds was fantastic and I am sure all who attended had a great experience.

 

“We know that indigenous athletes can excel at any sport but the pace and skill needed in football will mean that we will see footballers of indigenous background playing more and more at the highest level. It was great to chat to Jade North who made a special effort to be there after playing for the Roar on Friday night.

 

“Bernie McLeod (Tournament Director), Lawrence Gilbert (Event Manager) and Jamie Warren (Event Advisor) deserve special recognition for staging a very professional event and  competition and have set a very high standard for future National Indigenous Football Championships.

 

“Thanks must also go to the numerous event partners who supported the Inaugural National Indigenous Football Championships.

 

“Finally, credit must go to all the players, officials and volunteers who helped make this tournament a truly memorable occasion,” concluded

 

In the Johnny Warren Football Foundation Celebrity Match,  Team Mundine defeated Team Fozz  4-3 in what was an exciting and entertaining match featuring Aboriginal sporting role models and other Football legends.

 

The male and female National Select teams from the National Indigenous Football Championships will be announced later in the week.