Southern HIghlands PCYC takes part in Nation of Origins for the first time

PCYC NSW held a state wide sporting competition called the 'Nation of Origins' from October 5-8 which included football fives, basketball, rugby league, gymnastics and netball.

Two male and female teams competed in basketball held at the Newcastle Basketball Stadium while one male and one female team played in the football fives at the Lake Macquarie Regional Football Facility.

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Youth engagement officer, senior constable Raffaelle Frisina said it was an unbelievable experience for all the youth involved.

"This was the first time the Southern Highlands took part in the tournament and the expectation was that we'd commit to doing well in the sports," he said.

"I believe that happened."

Southern Highlands PCYC manager Krischan Keller said he received plenty of positive feedback from the youth.

"They all had a great time, and on the way back, there was also talk about doing it all again next year," Mr Keller said.

"They learnt a lot about what PCYC is and the importance of what we do for the community.

"The parents were also ecstatic with the fact they were given the opportunity to be a part of the event."

In the basketball, the girls finished third, while the boys came fourth.

Both football teams bowed out in the group stages.

Three quarters of the participants had to be Indigenous and to be involved, they had to have at least 80 per cent attendance at school and have no negative interactions with the police.

The concept of the tournament was initiated after consultation with Aboriginal communities across the state and young people.

It motivates youth to celebrate Australia's diverse indigenous culture and its deep impact on our history and their stories.

It also teaches them about reconciliation, education, cultural identity and sport.

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