“It’s very fun, you get to play with your friends, learn about football and it wouldn’t be possible without the Wanderers!”
Said St Mary’s Primary (George’s Hall) student Jack Maka who best summed up the seventh edition of the Wanderers Schools Cup that was played last week with 30 schools representing the Western Sydney region.
With a large group of the Wanderers Hyundai A-League squad looking on at various times and enjoying the spectacle, the kids from the West’s top schools strutted their stuff and showed what they were made of.
This year’s Schools Cup saw a record amount of teams and over 4000 players compete, highlighting the Wanderers’ ongoing commitment to the community.
The Finals Series would not have been possible without the support of Blacktown Football Association and Blacktown International Sportspark who helped through providing fields and facilities.
The aim of the Schools Cup tournament is to encourage football participation and physical activity in a safe and welcoming football environment.
The Cup caters for both primary and secondary schools, allowing teachers to bring students to a fun-filled gala day.
Schools can provide mixed, girls or boys team to compete and Regional winners receive an invitation to the Finals Series played in Term 4 at Blacktown.
Under the format of the competition, Regional Rounds were played among the Primary Schools during Terms 2 and 3 with teams qualifying the Finals Series last week.
The High Schools will get their turn on 26 November at Blacktown Football Park.
Speaking to the teachers, students, and parents, the Schools Cup is a great way to get youngsters engaged with the Wanderers as well as getting fit in a fun and competitive environment.
“It’s good to see everyone having a good time. I follow the Wanderers and being a goalkeeper, Dani Lopar is my favourite player,” said Jack Maka.
Robert D’Amore, a teacher at St Mary’s said the Schools Cup was a fantastic way to get all the kids out and playing football.
“This is our second year in the competition. The kids really enjoy coming here and get behind it,” said Robert D’Amore.
“The kids even enjoy training at school for this.
“I think you will find that the school is quite into football. They talk about the Wanderers and being a school in their catchment, they are behind them.”
Parent Anthony Maka also noted the benefits of the competition.
“I think it really helps the kids and schools connect with the Wanderers,” said Anthony Maka.
“I came out last year and it was great to see some of the Wanderers players being present.”
Bonnyrigg Heights primary school teacher Paige Anlezark, who coached the school’s girls team, praised the Cup and club.
“Yes, there is a good connection, especially through the various programs the club runs,” added Paige Anlezark.
“It’s a fantastic experience all round.”
One of her players, Angelina Tamraker, is a massive Wanderers fan.
“It is very fun. The Wanderers are my favourite team and I like all the players,” said Angelina Tamraker.
The day wrapped up with Mamre Anglican School winning the boys tournament while St Bernadettes won the Girls Grand Final.
The Wanderers have promised that 2020 will be even bigger and better, with hopes that they can crack the 5000 participants mark in the eighth edition of the Schools Cup.
