Football was Jamberoo’s currency as the 22nd Johnny Warren Memorial Cup connected the community over the weekend.

The tournament’s aim is to celebrate the life and success of former Socceroos captain and Australian football icon Johnny Warren.

Fixtures ran from Friday evening to Saturday afternoon in a seven a side competition that fielded a total of five male and female divisions.

“The cup always boosts tourism. With approximately 800 players in Jamberoo it is a real positive, Chairman of the Johnny Warren Football Foundation and event organiser Jamie Warren said.

“Johnny relished the flare and passion of the beautiful game and it is sensational that we can showcase this in his home town.

“The fact that John advocated for diversity all his life and that we bring people from different cultures and locations together is a win in itself.” Mr Warren said.

Locals and visitors alike were able to watch a high quality standard of football with former Socceroo Brett Emerton and former Central Coast Mariners title winner and Eredivisie defender Patrick Zwaanswijk both lacing up the boots following their respective retirements from the game.

Football Federation Australia Hall of Fame inductee and football journalist John Economos, who was close to “Captain Socceroo” for a number of decades, oversaw proceedings and said that the cup’s successes is an indication of how effectively it is organised.

“I am impressed with Jamie’s entire project. It is ever so well organised through massive planning, a strong work ethic, and an entire team dedicated to the cause.

Johnny would be proud. Equally by enthusiastic, sustained, and unyielding efforts.” Mr Economos said.

The detainment of ex-Bahraini footballer and Australian refugee Hakeem al-Araibi by the Thailand government did not go unspoken at the event with banners reading #SaveHakeem around the ground promoting the return of al-Araibi to both his wife and country.

Winners of the respective divisions are given separate trophies with the over 35s prize mirroring that of the FIFA World Cup, a reward that Warren once said that we as Australians should be winning.

With growing numbers each year and queries regarding more divisions Jamberoo can look forward to more football in years to come.

Story by Jordan Warren, on Twitter @jwarren0817