National Premier Leagues NSW Men’s side APIA Leichhardt FC have announced that they will be participating in the inaugural Riverina Festival of Football in Leeton on Saturday 14th of January 2023 bringing a mixture of local and state talent together for a pre-season friendly.
Inspired by Italian friendly football tournaments such as the world-famous Trofeo Luigi Berlusconi, The Riverina Festival of Football is an opportunity for several teams at NPL Level to showcase their talents in front of football-loving communities in the Riverina.
APIA will join Wagga City Wanderers, and local Riverina teams West Griffith SC and Leeton United FC in the round robin tournament.
Founded in 1954 by the migrant Italian community of Inner Western Sydney, APIA is proud to bring top-level football to Italian-Australian communities in regional New South Wales.
The football festival is the first of its kind in the region and will provide players with a chance to show their skills off early in 2023 and provide fans with a taste of high-level football.
As one of 222 clubs playing in the eight separate National Premier Leagues, APIA Leichhardt FC sees this tournament as an important step towards bridging the gap between Australia’s top tier and regional division competitions.
APIA Leichhardt FC’s recently appointed head coach Franco Parisi spoke enthusiastically about his team’s involvement.
“This tournament represents a fantastic opportunity for our players to play competitively before the start of our season. This provides invaluable experience to develop as players and strengthen our club’s bond with our local community and those from other parts of Australia.
“Our team is excited and proud to compete at this unique event celebrating our fantastic Italian heritage. We look forward to representing our community in what promises to be an incredible occasion.
“APIA Leichhardt FC look forward to what promises to be an exciting showcase of both local and national football talent in January next year.”
Current Football Wagga Wagga Premiers Leeton United have welcomed the opportunity to test their skills against elite city teams.
“We’re delighted to be able to host this tournament and showcase elite talent from around NSW,” said Leeton United’s Vice President Frank Millemaggi.
“We look forward to seeing how our players match up against some of the best in the state, and we look forward to APIA Leichhardt FC’s visit to the region.”
The Riverina Festival of Football will kick off at Leeton’s Number 2 Oval on January 14, 2023.
The tournament will open with exhibition matches of juniors and women’s teams from Griffith, Leeton and Wagga Wagga.
Thanks to local business and club sponsorship, the Festival of Football has been able to offer entry free of charge, providing an opportunity for locals to attend.
APIA Leichhardt FC encourages football fans from in and around the region to come along and join in a celebration of Australia’s diverse football culture.