The team will be called the Northern Nations and the majority of players have come from Armidale with a few coming from surrounding towns. 

Team organisers Dave Widders and Anthony Green are excited at the prospect of providing a pathway to elite levels of the sport for young, indigenous footballers.

Widders said there was a lot of interest from local footballers to join the team.  

“We have already got our men’s team named and we only put it out six to eight weeks ago,” he said.

“The women’s team already has 12 out of 16 picked.

Widders said it is important for players as they will represent their heritage and culture. 

“We have people representing their language groups,” he said.

“They are getting a chance to represent their area, also their people and their language group.

A national indigenous side will be selected from the tournament to potentially play a New Zealand or Fijiian team.

“Hopefully for a few players it opens doors or opportunities to get linkup with A-league teams as well,” said Green. 

The Northern Nations team are looking for sponsors and are holding a fundraiser gold day on Friday, May 13. 

For more information on sponsoring the Northern Nations team, contact Dave Widders on 0448 655 113.