The celebration and promotion of reconciliation, cultural identity and education through sport is set to take place at PCYC (Police Citizen Youth Clubs) NSW's annual Nations of Origin tournament, which is being held in Western Sydney next week.
The four day sporting event will see more than 1,100 Indigenous youths from across NSW represent 25 Indigenous nations in rugby league, football fives, gymnastics, basketball and netball tournaments.
Aiming to empower Indigenous and non-Indigenous young people by encouraging the celebration of Aboriginal culture and its profound impact on Australia's history, the tournament has grown substantially in its nine-year history.
In addition to bringing together youth from PCYC with NSW Police through sporting competition, the event also fosters skills, character and leadership amongst participants whilst encourage cultural respect and connections among young people.
Good behaviour, at least 70 per cent school attendance, and connection to culture through an Elder is rewarded with participation and the right to proudly wear their respective Nation's jersey.
PCYC NSW chief executive Dominic Teakle said giving young people the opportunity to earn the right to represent their nation through sport is a powerful tool for social change and inclusion.
"Rewarding hard work and discipline gives young people something to aim for," Mr Teakle said.
"Providing them the opportunity to represent their nation provides them with a place to belong and connect with culture.
"Sport is really the tool. When the young people pull on the jersey to represent their nation, their mob, and most importantly, their elders; whom we respect as knowledge holders, survivors and leaders in our communities, the feeling of pride and achievement is palpable."
Along with developing leadership skills, the multifaceted Nations of Origin tournament program encourages participants to forge lasting friendships and contribute to a legacy that honours the Elders whose custodianship of the land and culture is respected and acknowledged.
Mr Teakle also noted the significant involvement of the Police in the Nations of Origin tournament, which helps break down barriers that may exist between the Police and young people.
"Relationship building extends to the significant Police involvement in Nations of Origin" he said.
The tournament's official opening ceremony will be held on July 11, which will feature a traditional Aboriginal Smoking Ceremony and a Welcome to Country by Indigenous Elders before competition commences across venues in Whalan, Rooty Hill, Cambridge Park and Penrith
Nations of Origin Tournament Locations
Rugby League U16 Male & Female Competitions, Tuesday 11th & Wednesday 12th July
8am - 4:30pm, Whalan Reserve, Catlin Close Whalan
Football Fives U14 Male & Female Competitions, Wednesday 12th July
8:00am - 4:00pm, Wanderers Five Facility - Gate B, 81 Eastern Rd , Rooty Hill
Gymnastics Mixed Competition (TeamGym and FreeG), Thursday 13th July
8am - 4:00pm, Sydney Gymnastic and Aquatic Centre, 33 Railway St, Rooty Hill
Basketball U14 & U16 Female & Male Competitions, Thursday 13th July
8am - 4:00pm, Penrith Valley Regional Sport Centre 30 Herbert St, Cambridge Park
Netball U14 Female Competition, Friday 14th July
8:30am - 4:00pm, Jamison Park Netball Complex, York Rd, Penrith
