A sporting tournament has brought teams from around the world together with local teams to champion inclusivity and build connections.
The Let’s Connect Championship was hosted by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council in partnership with the Irish Football Association (IFA).
The T:BUC Division participated in the 5-a-side football tournament which was held at the Valley Leisure Centre. The aim was to bring together teams representing various countries and cultures from across the world, to celebrate unity, diversity, camaraderie, and community through the spirit of sport.
Paul Douglas, District Council Good Relations and T:BUC Trees (and T:BUC team Captain), said:
“Initiatives like the Let’s Connect Championship play a vital role in bringing communities together and complement the work done to create a peaceful, fair, equal and prosperous society for all. The Tournament results might not have gone the way we’d hoped but, overall, the event was a great success, and we were delighted to be involved. In fact, we’re already in training for next year’s Championship!”
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council kicked off Good Relations Week by hosting the Let’s Connect Championship five-a-side football tournament in partnership with the Irish Football Association (IFA) at the Valley Leisure Centre on 20 September 2023.
The T:BUC Division were delighted to support the event which brought together teams representing various countries and cultures from across the world, to celebrate unity, diversity, camaraderie, and community through the spirit of sport.
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Mark Cooper, said:
"Sports, like football, are powerful tools that bridge gaps and build lasting connections among communities worldwide. As Mayor, I am proud to witness the strength of our community and the commitment to fostering positive relations.
“Let's continue to champion inclusivity, camaraderie, and understanding for a brighter future together."