Craig Foster, the former Socceroo, will take part in this year’s Camden Tigers Indigenous Football Program (IFP) Dharawal Cup day this Saturday, January 21.
The 53 year old will be playing in the Reconciliation Cup match between an Indigenous over 35 men’s side and the Camden Tigers.
Foster, who is the chair of the Australian Republic Movement and a crusader for the rights of minorities, especially refugees, will also perform media duties during the day at Ron Dine Reserve, Camden.
His appearance is a big coup for the organisers of the event, first held a year ago in the same venue.
Phil Dotti, the director of the Camden Tigers IFP, declared at the inaugural event last year: “We’ve done something big here today, and it’s going to get bigger and bigger.’’
Securing the likes of Craig Foster, who was selected 29 times for Australia, confirms that the Dharawal Cup is here to stay as one of the big events of the Macarthur region.
“Craig Foster is a people’s champion and a role model for community change, and we are excited that he has agreed to join us for this year’s Festival of Football,’’ says Mr Dotti.
“He is a man who fights for what’s right, which aligns with what we are trying to do here in Macarthur.
“Dharawal Cup is about giving a stage to Indigenous footballers to shine as well as promoting reconciliation in our community,’’ he said.
On a sad note, Terry Diomis, who was the master of ceremonies at the inaugural event in January 2022, passed away last week.
Mr Dotti said there will be a minute’s silence observed as a mark of respect for Mr Diomis, and a football jumper with his name on the back will be auctioned and the proceeds going to his family.
The Welcome to Country ceremony will be conducted by Auntie Joyce Mate, followed by three games of football, each featuring an indigenous side taking on the Camden Tigers equivalent.
At 2pm the Lyrebird Cup clash will pit an Indigenous Youth (girls) side with the Camden Tigers.
It will be followed by the Reconciliation Cup at 3.30pm, featuring an Indigenous over 35 men side against the Camden Tigers. Craig Foster will be playing in this game, as will another former elite player, Mark Bridges.
The main game, for the Dharawal Cup, will kick off at 5pm between an IFP Indigenous Invitation team versus the Camden Tigers first grade side.
Entry to the day is free and everyone’s invited.
