Colourful scenes await for annual Pride Cup

ELDERSLIE Reserve will play host to a day of inclusion this Sunday as the Geelong Football Netball League (GFNL) makes its way to Newtown for the annual Pride Cup games.

Newtown & Chilwell FNC and Leopold FNC’s yearly fixture will head back to Geelong’s inner-suburbs where inclusivity and community spirit will be the message for both clubs.

“Every year we have really big involvement from Geelong Football Club and the GFNL itself at the Pride Cup,” Newtown & Chilwell president Shaun McWilliam said.

“However, this year both Newtown and Leopold really want to drive home the fact that we are clubs anyone can play at no matter what background or orientation.”

Sunday’s football and netball contests mark the fourth time the Pride Cup appears on the GFNL fixture.

The day aims to reinforce the message community sport is a place of acceptance and social inclusion, including those of different religious beliefs, disabilities, or genders.

Leopold captain Marcus Thompson is a familiar participant with the Pride Cup, saying it’s a very positive sign that both clubs have stuck with the day since 2018.

“At the end of the day in local football, we as a community need to make sure it’s inclusive for everyone,” Thompson said.

“Everyone deserves the opportunity to be a part of something like a local football and netball club and it’s good for us to represent that.”

Newtown & Chilwell forward Lachlan Bond will get a first-hand taste of the spirit involved in the Pride Cup contest taking part in his first Pride Cup game this Sunday.

“I’m excited to get in and amongst what is definitely a good cause,” Bond said.

“Unfortunately, there is still work to be done in including everyone into local football and netball, but it’s super good to be a part of such a great event.”

Sunday’s senior football contest promises to be an exciting game with both the Eagles and the Lions earning Round 1 wins.

Meanwhile, Newtown’s A Grade netball side will look to make it two on the trot taking on a winless Leopold outfit.

Senior sides commence Pride Cup games at 2pm.