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August 16, 2023
First sisters give next generation world cup thrill
Peter Verschaffelt
Posted On August 16, 2023
Download AudioFirst Sister of Country Jen Pickering says hosting the FIFA Women’s Football World Cup has given Māori football a massive boost.
First Sisters of Country is a panel of three Māori and three Australian First Nations women tasked with ensuring the tikanga and values of both countries are upheld during the tournament.
Jen Pickering says they brought 48 young players and their chaperones from across Aotearoa to attend last week’s quarter final between Sweden and Japan at Eden Park.
“They all play football. They’re all Maori. Not only were they able to come and experience a world cup game, they were able to make friendships and connect with our Maori Football Aotearoa and see a pathway they can access and become part of for their football journeys,” she says.
A similar gathering was held across the Tasman for Australian indigenous players as part of a number of firsts including the flying of indigenous peoples flags in the country the game is being played.
Spain won last night’s first semi-final against Sweden at Eden Park, setting up a final against either Australia or England in Sydney on Sunday.
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