The inaugural Inter Region Multicultural Schools Cup was held at Punt Rd Oval in
On a very cold and rainy day, two western region schools,
The concept behind the event was to bring together all winning teams from all five metro regions of Melbourne where the AFL Multicultural Development Officers (MDO) are based (Central East, North East, North West, South East and Western region).
Each region holds its own Multicultural Schools Cup which gives an opportunity to culturally and linguistically diverse students to play competitive Australian football.
This years' regional boys division winners were: Pascoe Vale PS, Sunshine Heights PS, Fitzroy PS, St Johns Thomastown PS and Amsleigh PS. The girls division regional winners were: St John Thomastown PS, Fitzroy PS, Glengala PS and Clayton North PS.
AFL Multicultural Programs Coordinator Nick Hatzoglou said that the Multicultural Schools Football Program was a major component of the program delivered to primary schools in the Metropolitan Melbourne.
“Australian football is a great way for students to come together from all different cultural backgrounds and link as one," Hatzoglou said.
"The nature of the game promotes reliance on team work and encouragement. It is a terrific vehicle to bring people together.”
More than 100 children from grades 5/6 represented nine primary schools at the event.
The highlight of the day was the manner in which students played their matches. It was absolutely great to see the sportsmanship, leadership, respect, teamwork, fairness and harmony on display.
These values are a core element of the Multicultural Schools Football Program delivered by the MDO's to schools in their regions. This year, the MDO's have reached in excess of 100 primary schools and 10000 children.
The huge success of the inaugural event will ensure its continuity in coming years.
