More than 700 spectators flocked to Tatterson Park for an interstate soccer tournament over Easter.
Zim FC with Zimbabwe Community Association in Victoria (ZCAV) hosted nine teams from as far as Sydney and Canberra at the annual Easter Soccer Challenge from 8-9 April 2023.
The tournament drew people from far and wide to “witness football skills on display, network, share our rich cultural heritage and spend some quality time with friends and family”, organizer Qiniso Dube said.
At the semi-final stage, Sydney beat Canberra 2-1, with host team Zim FC edging Loadshedding FC in a similar scoreline.
Zim FC lifted the trophy after sweeping Sydney 4-1 in the final.
The reigning Miss Charity Zimbabwe 2023, Britney Yvette, handed out the medals and trophies.
Despite getting knocked out in the group stages, Central Coast, Panthers FC and Zim Vic teams gave it all their best to the delight of the crowd.
Lionel Masudi scooped the top goal scorer award with a leading tally of eight goals in the tournament. Player of the tournament David Mwarabu “lit up the crowd with his dribbles and prowess in the middle of the park”, Mr Dube said.
The fans were treated to some fun when the retired soccer players took to the field to battle it out for the Masters tournament (over 35 years).
Only two teams Zim Masters and Zim Carrum Downs were on show to tussle for the trophy.
The latter won the first leg 4-1 which proved decisive despite a valiant 1-0 second leg win by Zim Masters.
South-Eastern Metropolitan MP Lee Tarlamis OAM was in attendance.
Headspace (Dandenong) and Stay ChatTy provided health information flyers to distribute to the crowd.
“The resources covered material on positive mental health, drugs, alcohol amongst other social issues which have been a challenge to the country as whole,” Mr Dube said.
Football Victoria provided a coaching clinic and prizes for the winners of a target hitting competition. MCSA also responded to a last-minute call for referees.
The Beat and Tatchid Entertainment delivered “unforgettable after-parties” for the players and guests. Food was supplied by caterers Afrobite and Zangers Bangers.
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