WELCOME
Acknowledgement of Country
Northern NSW Football acknowledges the Awabakal People as the traditional custodians of the land. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and future. We celebrate the diversity of Aboriginal peoples and their ongoing cultural connection to the land and waters of NSW.
Introduction
More than 120 First Nations players from across northern NSW and NSW will gather on Awabakal land at the Lake Macquarie Regional Football Facility to compete in the 2024 NAIDOC Cup, hosted by Northern NSW Football.
The event was a joint initiative created by Northern NSW Football and Football NSW as a means of providing more playing opportunities for First Nations footballers, working to increase the visibility of the community and inspiring a younger generation of sporting participants. The inaugural event was held in 2022 on Awabakal land at the Lake Macquarie Regional Football Facility.
In 2023, the event was expanded from two matches to eight, incorporating four teams from each member federation. Last year also saw the launch of the official NAIDOC Cup logo, created by First Nations artist Kim Wamsley. The logo artwork represents the coming together of players who bring their own unique skills and attributes as well as individual determination and strength to their respective teams.
This year’s NAIDOC Week theme of ‘Keep the fire burning! Blak, Loud and Proud’ is also being celebrated and reflected in both member federations. All eight matches will be streamed live on BarTV Sports, ensuring access to the First Nations sporting event can be enjoyed across Australia and beyond. The 2024 NAIDOC Cup is supported by the NSW government through the $10 million NSW Football Legacy Program.
CEO’S WELCOME
On behalf of Northern NSW Football, I would like to welcome you all to the Lake Macquarie Regional Football Facility for the 2024 NAIDOC Cup.
After the success of the inaugural NAIDOC Cup in 2022 and 2023, we are excited to host the First Nations event for the second time here on Awabakal land.
With the support of the NSW Football Legacy Program, the cup was expanded significantly in 2023 to incorporate under-14s and under-16s male and female teams as part of a three-day celebration of First Nations history, culture and achievements within our sport.
I would like to thank the NSW government for their ongoing support of our First Nations community through the NSW Football Legacy Program and acknowledge the NSW Office of Sport and the Minister for Sport, the Hon. Stephen Kamper MP. I would also like to acknowledge the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, the Hon. David Harris.
I would also like to acknowledge the interim Northern NSW Football Indigenous Advisory Group and my staff who have played an integral role in bringing our teams together and delivering the event in 2024. We sincerely thank them for their contributions to an event which we know means a great deal to each individual involved. Northern NSW Football is proud to have now adopted terms of reference and look forward to appointing a formal Indigenous Advisory Group to help inform on First Nations matters within the football community.
I also wish to acknowledge Northern NSW Football’s partners Umbro, Mitre and Badges And Medals for their ongoing support.
A final thank you goes to everyone attending in support of family, friends and the wider First Nations community.
We wish all the teams the best for the matches ahead and hope the event will provide an enriching experience for all participants involved.
Peter Haynes Chief Executive Officer Northern NSW Football
ITINERARY
REFEREES
Eddy Moncrieff
Jack Stoker
Luc Bates
Matt Bates
Anwen McDougall
NORTHERN NSW JERSEY DESIGN
With the games being held on Awabakal land I have represented the country with the background inspired by the shape of Lake Macquarie and the landscape of Awabakal’s beautiful coastline. Also represented is the traditional culture of the Awabakal people. Our ancestors played hunting games prior to modern times, so I have added a large-scale spear and boomerang to symbolise their hunting games.
The two large meeting places represent the teams. With 11 players surrounding each meeting place symbolising the 11 players on the field. The green and white travel line linking the meeting places represents the teams travelling to play their beloved sport. The other black and white trail depicts the teams entering and leaving the field, the black cross lines representing the shadows of players.
The spectators are depicted on the left of the artwork. This symbolises mob showing up and cheering on the teams. The right side portrays the coaches and officials who aid in the games.
The oversized footprint in the bottom corner symbolises all the training and skill set of the players while simultaneously representing the training and skill set of our ancestors.
Jodie Reynolds
Northern NSW Football Artist Competition Winner
FOOTBALL NSW JERSEY DESIGN
The idea behind my art piece was to do something based on the land that Football NSW is based on. From the research I did, its headquarters landed on Dharug land.
I myself am a woman from the Dharug nation. The goanna is one of the totums from the Dharug tribe. This brought the inspiration of illustrating the goanna on the design. Goannas are mainly land animals but do find themselves amongst the water from time to time.
Goannas are cold blooded creatures who are highly intelligent, stubborn and live in survival mode. I believe that these traits can connect on the field. These are the traits that players keep within themselves in each game in order to perform to their best quality and get the best possible outcome.
There is running water following into a campfire. I relate this closely to the land headquarters sits on. I connect this with the Nepean River that runs through Dharug land. This illustration not only brings together that land but also connects the team together as one.
Ameena Kanj Football NSW Artist Competition Winner
NORTHERN NSW COACH INTERVIEW
Craig Stoker - Under-16 Boys Coach
What excites you about the tournament as a coach?
To see how proud the players are to represent their culture and assist the players in becoming better footballers.
Why is the event important to the players, coaches and community?
NAIDOC Cup opens up channels and gives all Indigenous players from northern NSW exposure along with cultural mentoring and coming together of many different mobs.
What does being involved in the tournament mean to you?
Extremely proud to be part of such a great tournament. The growth from three years ago to now has been massive and I look forward to continuing to help grow the event even bigger in the future.
One piece of advice you would give to aspiring Indigenous boys and girls involved in football?
Grab the opportunity and get involved. We are all here to assist you on and off the pitch to give you the best possible experience.
A player to watch within your squad?
Liam Campbell is a box to box midfielder who has a fantastic work rate but is also very clever on the ball and knows to find the net.
NORTHERN NSW COACH INTERVIEW
Aleshia Lyons - Under-16 Girls Coach
What excites you about the tournament as a coach?
We should expect big things going in to the 2024 NAIDOC Cup as we have doubled the number of players/teams we are taking away. The depth of our squads going into the cup excites me. I personally can’t wait.
Why is the event important to the players, coaches and community?
It gives them a sense of belonging and acceptance into the football world. A cup or tournament where they can be acknowledged for both their culture and outstanding football abilities. This tournament gives our up and coming talented First Nations children something to work towards during their younger years. Something they can see, something they can watch older brothers, sister, aunts, uncles or cousins play as a small child. This is an opportunity for our children to have a goal as a teen to be selected for the team to show off their football talent while proudly representing their mob, their culture and their belonging.
What does being involved in the tournament mean to you?
It was an honour to be selected to coach at the 2024 NAIDOC Cup. Being selected gives me the opportunity to be a part of the first generation of First Nations children being exposed to and recognised for their football talent on a representative level while representing their mob, their culture. It also allows me the opportunity to personally develop my coaching adaptability with a group of talented young players from all over northern NSW.
One piece of advice you would give to aspiring Indigenous boys and girls to get involved in football?
The only place that success comes before work is in the dictionary.
A player to watch within your squad?
Aalyiah Kilroy
NORTHERN NSW COACH INTERVIEW
Brett Trappett - Under-16 Girls Coach
What excites you about the tournament as a coach?
With NAIDOC Cup entering into its third year it’s exciting to see the development from two teams on one day to its current format. I think it will only continue to grow and develop. Younger players see the current squads and want to emulate their success on the field.
Why is the event important to the players, coaches and community?
It’s about bringing people together during NAIDOC Week to celebrate culture using the world game as a means to achieve this. Players, coaches and the community can come and enjoy two days of exciting and skilful football.
What does being involved in the tournament mean to you?
Being privileged to coach at this tournament is an honour for me. Getting the opportunity to coach such a talented group of players that have the potential to play at the highest level of football is a highlight of my coaching career.
One piece of advice you would give to aspiring Indigenous boys and girls involved in football?
Don’t lose the passion for football. There will be many highs and lows during the journey, believe in yourself and your potential.
A player to watch within your squad?
Definitely Kalani Ryan
FOOTBALL NSW COACH INTERVIEW
Shandi Gibbons - Under 14-Girls Coach
What excites you about the tournament as a coach?
To be given the experience to share in such a culturally rich event that showcases our Indigenous players.
Why is the event important to the player, coaches and community? It is important to recognise and celebrate our heritage and talents.
What does being involved in the tournament mean to you?
This event allows me to give back to my community and recognise the importance of standing together.
One piece of advice you would give to aspiring Indigenous boys and girls involved in football?
It doesn’t matter how far away that dream seems, anything is possible if you work hard.
A player to watch within your squad?
We have a very talented bunch of girls again this year. I couldn’t name a stand out just yet. Watch this space.
FOOTBALL NSW COACH INTERVIEW
Dwayne Pearson - Under-15 Boys Coach
What excites you about the tournament as a coach?
This tournament always excites me as it brings players together from all parts of NSW. Players being able to learn the trade of others, both on the football field and off it, with the experience of others. Culturally everybody continues to learn. The players selected will hopefully take a lot out of it. If they don’t continue their football journey hopefully they make friends for life from this.
Why is the event important to the player, coaches and the community?
The event brings people together. Having Indigenous players being selected to represent the state and their mob speaks volumes. Players having the opportunity to showcase their individual skills on the pitch and continue to learn and grow in culture is what it’s about. As coaches we are not there to coach them. We are there to manage them and guide them throughout this experience. As the players, coaches have the chance to bounce off each other, learn and listen. Money can’t buy this experience.
What does being involved in the tournament mean to you ?
This is the second time I have had the privilege to be on the coaching staff of this prestigious event. What it means is seeing young Indigenous players having the opportunity to be part of a squad/ camp environment. Living, breathing football and culture for the days we are in camp. To see the pride of the players being presented their jerseys/kit makes it even more special as a coach to see these young kids happy and smiling.
One piece of advice you would give to aspiring Indigenous boys and girls involved in football?
The pathways are being set. Ensure to do your best on and off the pitch. Enjoy every moment. Learn. You never know who is watching.
A player to watch within your squad?
All players selected deserve to be watched. If we give any hints who is performing well it may give the opposition the upper hand. Keeping that question very close to my chest.
UNDER-14s GIRLS SQUADS
UNDER-16s GIRLS SQUADS
UNDER-14s BOYS SQUADS
UNDER-16s BOYS SQUADS
NORTHERN NSW PLAYER INTERVIEW
Aalyiah Kilroy - Under-16s Girls Player
What excites you about the tournament as a player?
I am excited to represent my culture, meet new people and hopefully we can bring the trophy home this year.
Why is the event important to the players, coaches and community?
The event is important because it’s an opportunity for us all to come together from different mobs to get out on the field and have some fun as group and experience a really good cultural community event.
What does being involved in the tournament mean to you?
It makes me proud and makes me feel more connected to my culture.
One piece of advice you would give to aspiring Indigenous boys and girls involved in football?
To always stay dedicated and passionate about the sport. Work hard, stay focused on your goals and never give up on your dreams. Remember that with determination and perseverance, you can achieve great things on and off the field.
Keira
McCowen
- Under-14s Girls Player
What excites you about the tournament as a player?
I’m excited about catching up with friends from last year’s NAIDOC Cup squad and meeting the new girls who made the team this year. I am also proud to be representing my area at a competitive level and celebrating my culture.
Why is the event important to the players, coaches and community?
Coaches, players and the community can come together to celebrate our culture and heritage. We come together in the game we all love. It puts Indigenous football in the spotlight and gives us an opportunity to show off our skills.
What does being involved in the tournament mean to you?
The tournament is a way for me to represent my people and show them how proud I am to be Indigenous.
One piece of advice you would give to aspiring Indigenous boys and girls involved in football?
I would tell them not to be afraid to have a go at football. It’s a great team sport where everyone can have fun. I have found it to be a great sport and have met so many great people. Also don’t be afraid to travel for your sport to make your dreams come true. I have found NAIDOC Cup to be a way for everyone to come together and celebrate.
NORTHERN NSW PLAYER INTERVIEW
Archie Kellett - Under-14s Boys Player
What excites you about the tournament as a player?
I’m excited about meeting new kids, hanging out with friends from last year and having fun.
Why is the event important to the players, coaches and community?
It’s important because we are representing our culture and it’s a great way to celebrate NAIDOC week.
What does being involved in the tournament mean to you?
I’m proud to be selected in the NAIDOC Cup team for Northern NSW Football.
One piece of advice you would give to aspiring Indigenous boys and girls involved in football?
Practice hard and just do it.
Ty Stoker - Under-16s Boys Player
As a player what excites you about the tournament?
To be around my culture and community by playing football.
Why is the event important to the players, coaches and community?
It’s important for all us Indigenous players, coaches and community to be given the chance to express our culture and get more Indigenous players/coaches that are in the community to get into football.
What does being involved in the tournament mean to you?
It means everything. To be able to play for my culture and get the recognition for Indigenous people out there as it deserves to be.
One piece of advice you would give to aspiring Indigenous boys and girls involved in football?
Get amongst it because you will love it.
FOOTBALL NSW PLAYER INTERVIEW
Derelle Avery - Under-16 Girls Player
What excites you about the tournament as a player?
I’m excited because it’s my last year in this tournament and I get to do it with two of my younger sisters.
Why is the event important to the players, coaches and community?
Because we need to showcase and promote all around the country so people know more about this football event and its culture behind it.
What does being involved in the tournament mean to you?
For me being involved in this tournament means I can play the sport I love with representing myself, my culture and my values alongside my younger siblings.
One piece of advice you would give to aspiring Indigenous boys and girls involved in football?
Don’t stop striving to be the best player you can be. Don’t forget where you come from and play with your heart and soul matter what.
Felix Yeo - Under 16 Boys Player
What excites you about the tournament as a player?
Winning hopefully and enjoying a shared experience with new and old friends.
Why is the event important to the players, coaches and community?
Coming together to celebrate our culture and have fun playing the game that we love.
What does being involved in the tournament mean to you?
Pride at being recognised as an Indigenous footballer and a chance to learn more about my culture through other people’s stories and experiences.
One piece of advice you would give to aspiring Indigenous boys and girls involved in football?
Work hard, play positive, never give up.
FOOTBALL NSW PLAYER INTERVIEW
Cydnee Avery - Under-14s Girls Player
What excites you about the tournament as a player?
Having the opportunity to play alongside my two sisters.
Why is the event important to the players, coaches and community?
I am excited to represent my culture and people by doing what I love most which is playing soccer.
What does being involved in the tournament mean to you?
I feel privileged to be involved and accepted into the NAIDOC Cup squad to play in the tournament.
One piece of advice you would give to aspiring Indigenous boys and girls involved in football?
Never give up. Follow your dreams. If you get knocked down, get back up and keep trying until you succeed.
Cydnee Avery - Under-14s Girls Player
What excites you about the tournament as a player?
I’m excited to represent Football NSW with the other players in the Indigenous community. It will be special to play in the Indigenous jersey. I always want to play more football. It will be good to meet other players as well.
Why is the event important to the players, coaches and the community?
It’s important because it’s celebrating Indigenous sport as part of NAIDOC Week so it’s a chance to show how well Indigenous players can play and to compete against each other and have an opportunity to celebrate NAIDOC Week. It’s a time where Aboriginal culture can be celebrated because it didn’t used to be.
What does being involved in the tournament mean to you?
I feel lucky I was picked. I hope that it makes my family proud and that I play well. I think it’s special for my pop because when he grew up he didn’t know he was Aboriginal because their mum was stolen from her family for being Aboriginal.
One piece of advice you would give to aspiring Indigenous boys and girls involved in football?
Follow your dreams and don’t let anything stop you. Never give up. It’s very mental. Put in your maximum effort and energy at training because it does make you better and always listen to your coaches.
2023 RESULTS
Day 1 Results
U14 Boys
Football NSW 2 (Wright 2)
Northern NSW 6 (Ferguson 2, Kellett, McFayden 3)
U14 Girls
Football NSW 15 (Wynne 8, Houghton 2, Bates, Houghton, Jeffery, McCown, own goal)
Northern NSW 0
U16 Boys
Football NSW 4 (Turk 2, Melissari, own goal)
Northern NSW 3 (Bates, Boldery, Smith)
U16 Girls
Football NSW 0
Northern NSW 3 (Boldery, Ryan 2)
Day
2 Results
U16 Boys
Football NSW 6 (Hawke 2, Turk, Wright, Hawkett, Melissari)
Northern NSW 2 (Stoker, Hunter)
U16 Girls
Football NSW 2 (Chaseling 2)
Northern NSW 3 (Ryan 3)
U14 Boys
Football NSW 2 (Isaako, Wright)
Northern NSW 2 (McFayden 2)
U14 Girls
Football NSW 9 (Turk 3, Houghton 2, Mitchell 2, Deal, Healey)
Northern NSW 0
2023 NAIDOC Cup Player of the Tournament Award Winners
Under-14s Girls – Tikka Jeffery (Football NSW)
Under-14s Boys – Chase McFayden (Northern NSW)
Under-16s Boys – Jakoby Hunter (Northern NSW)
Under-16s Girls – Kalani Ryan (Northern NSW)
2023 NAIDOC Cup Group Winners
Under-14s Girls – Football NSW
Under-14s Boys – Northern NSW
Under-16s Boys – Football NSW
Under-16s Girls – Northern NSW
2023 NAIDOC Cup Champions
Football NSW
Streaming of the tournament is provided by NNSWF’s streaming partner BarTV.
Watch all the NAIDOC Cup action here.
TOURNAMENT STREAMING FIXTURES & RESULTS
For all NAIDOC Cup fixtures and results visit Squadi here.
DETERMINING THE CHAMPION
A. The tournament winner will be determined by the Member Federation that accumulates the most aggregate points in accordance with determination of results.
B. In the event of Member Federations finishing on equal points at the conclusion of the Tournament, the following will apply to determine the Tournament winner:
a. The Team with the highest goal difference will be declared the Tournament winner.
b. If a. does not applicable, the Team with the highest goals for will be declared the Tournament winner.
c. If nether a., or b. are applicable, the Team with the highest Fair Play Points at the end of the Tournament will be declared the Tournament winner – the Fair Play Points System in which the number of Yellow and Red Cards in group Matches is considered according to the following deductions:
1. First Yellow Card (per Player or Team Official) – minus one (1) point
2. Second Yellow Card or Indirect Red Card (per Player or Team Official) – minus three (3) points
3. Direct Red Card (per Player or Team Official) – minus four (4) points
4. Yellow Card and Direct Red Card (per Player or Team Official) – minus five (5) points
5. If neither a., b., or c. are applicable, a coin toss by Tournament Management will determine the Tournament winner.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Keep up to date with the NAIDOC Cup by following our social media.
LAKE MACQUARIE REGIONAL FOOTBALL FACILITY
