The Tokyo under-14s International Youth Football Tournament concluded in Japan on Wednesday 6 May following three hard-fought days of action.
NNSWF took an under-14 boys team to the tournament, which began in 2006 and is organised by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Tokyo Sports Benefits Corporation and the Tokyo Football Association.
The tournament was developed to foster the development of the next generation of young footballers by promoting mutual understanding across national borders and enhancing skills of athletes through competition.
Thomas Todorovski was named NNSWF’s Player of the Tournament following a standout campaign, while Emile Anforth and Zach Ashley shared the Players’ Player award. Spencer Philip was recognised as the team’s most consistent player.
NNSWF was also proudly represented by two players from the Far North Coast region, with Marley Hume from Alstonville FC and Massimo Feletti from Lismore Workers Football Club selected in the squad.
The team capped off the tournament with an impressive 3-2 victory over the Fukushima Training Centre selected team, producing a strong second half performance to secure the win.
The campaign also marked the highest finish ever achieved by a NNSWF side at the tournament.
NNSWF General Manager Member Services and team manager Ross Hicks said he was thrilled to be alongside the squad throughout the tournament and proud to see the players grow through the experience.
“It was a fantastic opportunity for our under-14s boys squad to compete in a tournament of this calibre, and I’m extremely proud of how the players represented Northern NSW Football,” Hicks said.
“The tournament is about far more than results. It’s designed to develop young footballers through high-level competition and cultural exchange, and our players really embraced that experience both on and off the field.
“Finishing with our highest-ever placing in the tournament, capped off with a strong 3-2 win over the Fukushima Training Centre team, was a fitting reward for the effort, commitment and unity shown throughout the week.”