Greater Shepparton City Council was pleased with the success of the Australian Football Skool's (AFS) Shepparton Cup that took place over this past weekend, which was the largest weekend junior football tournament in Australia ever hosted.
Australian Football Skool on Facebook">In summary:
- AFS Shepparton Cup breaks records as Australia's largest junior football tournament, with the event attracting over 10,000 visitors and boosting local economy.
- 313 teams from across Australia and New Zealand competed in 755 games.
- Council's Parks, Sport, and Recreation team played a crucial role in organizing the event.
With a record-breaking 313 teams competing across 21 divisions, the tournament saw close to 4,000 players from Under 6 competition through to Under 17 competition. The players showcased their talent on 38 pitches spread across Shepparton Sports City, Wanganui Oval, Rumbalara, and the Mooroopna Recreation Reserve.
The AFS Shepparton Cup brought together teams from across Australia and New Zealand, with participants travelling from Sydney, Cairns, Launceston, Hobart, regional NSW, and throughout Victoria.
Over three action-packed days, 755 games were played, culminating in an exciting Finals Day on Sunday. The tournament attracted more than 10,000 visitors, filling accommodation in Greater Shepparton and surrounding major towns to capacity and infusing the local economy with a significant boost.
Greater Shepparton City Council's Parks, Sport and Recreation team played a vital role in organising the event, handling everything from the pitch setup to goal placements, ensuring a smooth experience for all participants.
Council's Director Sustainable Development, Geraldine Christou, expressed her pride in hosting the landmark event, emphasising its positive impact on the community.
"Australia's largest junior weekend football tournament right here in Greater Shepparton showcases the strength of our community spirit and our capacity to host major events that bring joy, talent, and visitors to our region," she said.
"The economic benefit of this tournament is immense with an estimated $3 to $4 million generated for the region, supporting our local businesses and creating lasting memories for thousands of young athletes and their families."
AFS Director, Rolando Navas, also reflected on the remarkable growth of the tournament, which began with just 30 teams in 2007 and has since expanded to 313 teams in 2024.
"The AFS Shepparton Cup stands as a testament to the passion and dedication of young footballers and their families. We are thrilled to see this tournament become a beacon of community, resilience, and the love of the game," he said.
This year's AFS Shepparton Cup featured a vibrant carnival atmosphere with entertainment, food trucks, and a fun zone for players and families, making it a memorable experience for all.
Plans are already underway to welcome even more international teams in 2025, solidifying Greater Shepparton as Australia's home for junior football.
