Community Football Tournament 2019

21 February 2019

As one of most exciting community events of the year, the annual BIS Community Football Tournament is a wonderful opportunity for BIS students and children from our local community to integrate and enjoy an exciting morning of football and friendship.

Last Sunday saw the return of our Community Football Tournament. After weeks of preparation, the Junior Campus field was set for 110 children from BIS and our long-standing community partners.

Children from Years 4, 5,6 and 7 as well as children from Binh An School, Binh Tho School, Huynh Van Ngoi School and Poussieres de Vie were invited to the competition, playing in mixed teams. Children arrived in great spirits for registration where they were given their football kit, kindly supplied by the PTG. Our community partner children were also provided with donated football shoes, kindly donated by parents. This year’s event had a World Cup theme, involving a variety of national teams. The thrilling group stages kicked off at 8.30, after a warm welcome and introduction from Mr. John Handscombe.

Also supporting the tournament was a large group of volunteers, including 21 secondary students, who helped distribute kits and snacks, take photographs and videos, coach the teams and more, throughout the course of the morning.

It was such a pleasure to be part of the community football tournament, it was such a memorable and wonderful experience that we will not forget. One of the things that I remember vividly was the smiling faces on the children after each of us helped them put on their shoes and shin pads, ready for the game. On behalf of the Community Committee, I would also like to give a big thanks to the teachers and PTG members who gave us lots of guidance throughout the day. Cherry Yang, Year 12

Cheered on by a buzzing crowd of volunteers, students and parents, the teams with the most points progressed to the knockout stages. Brilliant goals flew in and wonderful saves were made. There was a great feeling of companionship between the children as they fought for points to reach the final rounds. A nail-biting penalty shoot-out saw England reach the final to play Croatia. Eventually, Croatia beat England, with a marvellous golden goal free kick.

Every player was awarded a medal of participation by Mr. Chris McKelvie, including gold medals for the winners. As Mr. Chris announced, it was a fantastic event for building friendships through sport within our local community. To help savour this experience, our community partner children also kept their new football kits and shoes.

The Community Service Team would like to thank those who made this successful event possible: Fox Football for their coaching support; Lubu and the BIS canteen for their snacks and bánh mì; all of the many volunteers, parents, staff and children who contributed their time towards this community event; and especially Mr John, the main organiser of the tournament.

Luke Neville, Community Service Leader