Last Sunday Brisbane saw the culmination of the 2012 Community Shield Football tournament supported by the Community Partnership Trust, a LUCRF Super initiative, along with Queensland Police and the Romero Centre.
Having just completed its fourth year, the Community Shield (formerly QPS World Cup) is Australia’s largest multicultural football tournament.
On hand for the finals was the PFA’s Daniel Kowalski, who also volunteered his time as the Master of Ceremonies. Daniel spoke enthusiastically of the tournament, “I take my hat off to all players who took part in a great tournament. Incredible displays of sportsmanship and talent prevailed throughout the competition. I can’t speak highly enough about all of those who contributed – from the partners to the volunteers – to ensure the smooth execution of the event.”
“The passion and commitment shown by the teams was truly inspiring. The Community Shield accurately reflects the international game of football and it is fantastic the PFA could be involved” Kowalski added.
The winners in the Premier Division were the talented Africa 11 who earned a 1-0 win over a tough and talented Scotland team, in front of a very vocal and passionate crowd.
On hand to present the “PFA Players’ Player” award were PFA Executive Shane Stefanutto and PFA Delegate Matt Smith. The Brisbane Roar stars had the tough task of selecting the player who stood out from the others, with over 1000 talented players taking part in the tournament.
In other results, Vietnam defeated Hong Kong United in the Division 1 final with Somalia overcoming South Africa Jabulani in the Division 2 final.
In a fantastic initiative supported by the LUCRF Community Partnership Trust – which provides assistance to community projects that help build skills and knowledge – five players were awarded bursaries based on their performances throughout the tournament. The judges identified players from the Afghanistan, Burundi, Congo, Africa XI and Somalia teams, as the recipients of these bursaries.
With many of the players unable to meet the cost of registering for the various leagues, the bursaries will ensure players can continue to follow their passion of football and develop their amazing talents.
By engaging young people from different backgrounds in fun and meaningful activities, the 2012 Community Shield is a great way to celebrate cultural diversity and promote cultural unity.
ENDS
