Hunter Simba FC is the first recipient of Men of Football’s charity and they celebrated their first official game at home on Saturday 7th May 2011 using equipment provided by Men of Football. Equipment provided included goal nets, corner posts, training balls and bibs, water bottles and shin pads for players and a first aid kit.
Club Founder and President Biko Syongoh said the support from Men of Football has been a lifesaver.
“Most of the players struggle to meet the costs of registration so additional demands on them to help set up the club were impossible”.
The club’s plight was brought to the attention of MOF by Keith Harris, a member of the Newcastle Jets Football Advisory Board and a MOF member.
“The committee felt Hunter Simba’s need was worthy and we decided to support it’ said MOF committee member Andy Stankovic. “They are a great bunch of young guys trying to make a new home here in the Hunter and through football they are connecting to each other and integrating into the wider community.”
The players mainly come from various countries throughout Africa.
“English is the common language and it is a beautiful melting pot” said My Syongoh.
Whilst the 2 all draw was not the win the club had hoped for on their first outing there was no shortage of enthusiasm and joy amongst the players and supporters.
