New Zealand has been a happy hunting ground for Kanga Cup to recruit from in recent years, and the 2024 edition is proving to be no exception with the newest addition to the line-up hailing from the Northern Area of Auckland in the shape of Hibiscus Coast AFC.
The club will make their first trip to the Kanga Cup to celebrate their 50th Anniversary as an organisation, and are currently one of the biggest clubs in Auckland with over 1400 members. Their top men’s team compete in the First Division which is the second tier of Auckland football while their Women’s team compete in the highest vision possible, the Premiership.
Angus Goodrick, Junior Club Captain who is in charge of teams from the u/9s to u17 and who is a member of Hibiscus AFC’s executive committee, has been involved with the club for 10 years and is looking forward to the trip across to Australia and a chance to challenge themselves against international opposition.
“This is our first time at the Kanga Cup, and this is the first time the club has sent a team overseas in any capacity,” Goodrick revealed. “We entered the Kanga Cup due to its excellent reputation and organisation.
“A big draw card was also the different divisions possible as this meant you are guaranteed to be playing teams of a similar standard. We prefer the tournament style than a typical tour as the players will experience more game time.
“We are hoping to play teams from other countries and experience different styles of play to what we are used to. It will also be good to see how we are progressing as a team.”
It’s not just about the football for Hibiscus AFC, unsurprising when you visit the club website and check out their values one of which is hugely focused on being a strong part of a vibrant community. ‘Behind every strong club there is a thriving community that is engaged and supportive.’ It reads. ‘We will identify and work with other local community groups so that we are an integral part of the local Hibiscus Coast community.’
The support of this community is helping to drive the team to the Cup where, outside of the football, Goodrick expects his playing group to enjoy everything that Canberra can offer.
“We are hoping to attend a Canberra Raiders game, the War Memorial and Questacon. And if time, the Australian Institute of Sport,” Goodrick said. “The history of the Kanga Cup competition, as well as the many different teams that compete from all over Australia and the world, is why we are here though, and we can’t wait!”
You can join Hibiscus AFC, who will be fielding a team in the U12 Open Plate, by registering for the tournament here!
