Deni to contest Shepparton Cup

Team coach Diego Sztejman said the Shepparton Cup is a well regarded tournament, and will be held at two huge venues.

One is Shepparton Sports City - one of Australia’s showcase sports precinct. It has two show pitches, nine dedicated pitches and a 530-seat grandstand on the main pitch.

Games will also be played at Mooroopna Reserve in Mooroopna.

More than 3000 players competed in 2019, representing 287 teams over three days.

Teams came from Victoria, interstate and even overseas.

In Shepparton, the Deniliquin side will play a minimum of four games overseen by Football Victoria qualified referees.

Generally, group games are played on the Saturday with playoffs and finals on the Sunday.

Teams can also opt into Friday night fixtures under lights.

The event will also incorporate a football expo to showcase products and services, and a fun zone for all the family to enjoy.

Sztejman’s aim since coming to Deniliquin has been is to build interest in soccer - which is the world’s most played sport and referred to simply as football in most countries.

He said getting this side together, on the back of a successful Deniliquin District Soccer Club competition season, is a great indication its popularity is growing.

And he has further plans for the expansion of the sport.

“The aim of forming this new team is to expose younger kids to the sport and give them a chance to develop their skills,” he said.

“Currently, the team is only made up of boys. However, the club is looking to develop more teams next year.

“The team will train twice a week outside of school hours.”

Sztejman said now a team for the Shepparton Cup has been formed, sponsorship is being sought to support the team and provide them with necessary resources like uniforms and travel to games.

For more information or to express interest in sponsoring, call 0423 928 553 or make contact through the Deniliquin District Soccer Club Facebook page.