Kicking goals for mental health: Neami Community Cup returns to Port Macquarie

NOW in its sixth year, the Neami Community Cup will bring the Port Macquarie-Hastings community together on Wednesday 8 October for a day of soccer, connection and conversation about mental health.

An initiative of Neami National’s Mid North Coast service, the Community Cup is a free, family-friendly soccer round robin held at Findlay Park in Port Macquarie from 9am – 2pm.

The event is run during World Mental Health Month and aims to raise awareness, reduce stigma and highlight the services available to support wellbeing in the community.

The Neami Community Cup was first held in 2019 and has since grown into a much-loved fixture on the local calendar, drawing hundreds of participants and spectators each year.

Past events have seen school teams, community groups, service providers and families take part, all united by the goal of breaking down barriers to talking about mental health.

This year’s Community Cup will see 34 local organisations hosting information stalls and 20 teams competing on the field, alongside raffles, mini games, a lucky door prize, free BBQ and coffee, and awards for best dressed team, best dressed stall and Most Valuable Player (MVP).

Delivered by Neami National and funded by donations from Community Housing Limited, Port Saints Soccer Club and local businesses, the Cup is a reflection of Neami’s belief that mental health support is strengthened when people feel connected and included.

Neami Mid North Coast Service Manager Cherie Caltabiano told News Of The Area, “The Neami Community Cup has become a highlight of World Mental Health Month on the Mid North Coast, and we’re thrilled to be welcoming more stalls and more teams than ever before.

“Sport has a unique way of breaking down barriers and sparking conversations.

“The Neami Community Cup uses soccer as a way to bring people together, celebrate community spirit and encourage open conversations about mental health.

“Whether you’re playing, cheering from the sidelines, or stopping by to connect with a local support service, everyone is welcome at the Neami Community Cup.”