AFTER raising almost $30,000 for local youth sport and recreation charities in its first two years, the Rotary Walking Football Charity Shield is aiming even higher in 2027.
Organised by the Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour Daybreak, with support from North Coast Football, the third annual tournament will be held at Coffs Synthetics on Saturday, March 6, from 3pm to 8pm.
The event brings together local businesses, community groups and football enthusiasts for an afternoon and evening of friendly competition, fundraising and fun, all in support of worthwhile local causes.
Walking Football is a modified version of the traditional game, played at walking pace to provide an accessible and enjoyable way for people of different ages and fitness levels to take part in team sport.
Rotary Daybreak is calling on local businesses to get behind the 2027 event by entering a team or becoming a sponsor.
Rotary Daybreak president Ian Leach said the tournament had demonstrated the difference the local community could make when it came together for a good cause.
“We’ve raised almost $30,000 in just two years, and we’d love to build on that success in 2027,” Leach said.
“You don’t need to be a footballer to get involved. Local businesses can enter their own teams, sponsor teams or simply support a great community cause and have a fun day out!”
Funds raised through the first two tournaments have helped disadvantaged young people access local community sport through scholarships, supported a local footballer to compete at the Deaflympics in Japan, and assisted organisations including Riding for the Disabled, Surfing for the Disabled and GrooveHouse Ability and Beyond Coffs Harbour.
With team registrations opening in November, organisers are encouraging businesses and community groups to get involved before Christmas to help with tournament planning ahead of the event itself in March 2027..
The event is open to players aged 18 and over, with every team required to include at least two women.
Full insurance is provided, and spectators are welcome to come along and support the teams.
For information, contact Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour Daybreak president Ian Leach at ianjleach@hotmail.com.
By David WIGLEY
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