This Saturday, Modbury Jets AFC are hosting the Phoenix Cup soccer tournament for people with disabilities once again, and it's their 10th birthday!
What initially started out as a tournament for the four Adelaide based facilities of the Phoenix Society (now Bedford), The Phoenix Cup has now blossomed into a tournament which will involve twelve teams and approximately 130 participants.
Tournament History
Modbury Jets AFC (MJAFC) commenced this tournament in 2009 in a bid to provide to people with disabilities the opportunity to participate in a football tournament and to mix with their peers in similar circumstances.
The tournament was organised and run by the Modbury Jets AFC from 2009 to 2015 (7 years), in which time MJAFC were approached by Bedford Industries to take over the running of the tournament from last year to assist with the administration of the expanding event.
Tournament organiser Ryan Mogg is excited and proud of the way the tournament has progressed over the last decade.
To get to the ground in the early morning and have players already there and to see their eagerness and excitement about the day ahead is overwhelming."
"I couldn’t be prouder of the way the Phoenix Cup has grown. That feeling though is felt from most who have been involved with this day along with the sponsors, community, family, friends and the volunteers."
We have all embraced this spirit of this tournament over the years and we walk away every year proud of our contribution in making this annual tournament what it is today. "
Format
The games are played on inflatable pitches. Generally, each team will play a minimum of 4-6 games throughout the day. Each game lasts about 12 minutes with games scheduled every 15 minutes.
The winners and runners-up receive medals with the winning teams (from both divisions) taking home the Phoenix Cup to put on display for the year. There are also other awards in Best Player, Golden Boot, Golden Gloves & Spirit of the Tournament given out at the presentations.
All participants of The Phoenix Cup receive:-
• Free BBQ Lunch
• Free fruit throughout the day
• Free bottled water throughout the day
• Free participation packs (made up of donated products/items)
• Medals for all participants and trophies for the lucky few
• DVD / Video of the tournament
The event has had great support in previous years from State and Federal governments, along with the Mayor or Tea Tree Gully who has presented medals in years previous. Adelaide United FC has also supported the day.
All participants on the day are cheered on by the clubs players/volunteers, family, friends, and local supporters. BBQ, drinks & beverages are available as well as fun activities for all kids in attendance with a clown with balloons, face painting, airbrush tattoos, jumping castle and of course soccer goals and balls to have a kick around.
The participating teams since the inception of the tournament came from the following Adelaide based organisations:
• Bedford Group
• Orana
• Leveda (Lighthouse Disability)
• Cerebral Palsy
• SASRAPID
• Special Olympics
• Novita
• Inclusive Sport
• Lighthouse Disability
Highlights of 2010's tournament
MJAFC would like to extend thanks to the public and organisations that have contributed to the event this year and in previous years.
Should you have any further queries regarding the Phoenix Cup, please don’t hesitate to contact Ryan Mogg on 0431 400 085, or e-mail at rmogg@peopleschoicecu.com.au.