Lighting the Fire is an Aboriginal youth leadership project aimed at the 16 to 24-year-old age group.

In its first year in 2013, particpants were surveyed on what they were interested in and what they would like to see implemented in the project.

Health was a major issue raised so organisers came up with the idea of a Tenterfield to Tamworth touch football knockout as a way to promote healthy living.

Teams were able to enter in two divisions, juniors and opens.

There was also an exhibition match between elders and youths.

“One of the main issues we focus on is bridging the gap between elders and youth,” Lighting the Fire project coordinator Shannon Green said.

It was a successful day for the Armidale sides with local side No Idea taking out the junior division from Inverell side Linking Together.

No Idea almost pulled off the double by taking the opens division too, but they were edged out by another local side Black Impa.

The exhibition match was well received by players and spectators alike according to Green.

“It was great,” she said.

“I have never seen bigger smiles.

“I think they had the most fun of the entire competition.”

Green also commended all players and supporters involved.

“There was some great sportsmanship,” she said.

“Everyone pulled together to make a great day happen.”