More Than a Game: Young People Leading the Way

On Sunday 25 January 2026, Arden Street Oval in North Melbourne hosted the inaugural African Champions League, a one-day five-a-side tournament that brought young people together during the school holidays through competition, teamwork and leadership. 

Developed in response to strong interest from young people, the tournament created a space for them to compete, showcase their talent and take the lead. 

That vision came to life through a partnership with United Through Football, with the tournament bringing together 16 teams across two competitions. The day featured an under 18 junior competition and an under 25 senior competition, creating a full program of matches across the afternoon and evening. 

A Day on the Pitch 

Matches kicked off at 12.30pm and ran late into the night, with games played back-to-back across the afternoon and evening.

Food was provided, and nearly 200 players, families and community members attended across the day, creating a strong and welcoming atmosphere around the pitch. 

The standard of play was high throughout the tournament. Elite Football won the junior competition, while Garoon FC took out the senior competition.

Youth Leadership in Action

A defining feature of the African Champions League was youth leadership. Yaqub, a young leader from the community, was appointed as the designated Tournament Lead and played a key role in planning and delivering the event alongside partners. 

“As the tournament lead, I wanted to create something positive and competitive that young people could really own. The African Champions League gave us a space to showcase talent, stay connected and bring the community together. Seeing nearly 200 people attend showed how important opportunities like this are for young people.” — Yaqub, Tournament Lead, African Champions League 

Looking Ahead 

The African Champions League launched with energy, ambition and a clear sense of purpose. Young people took the stage, the community showed up, and the talent on display spoke for itself. With enthusiasm already building for what comes next, this inaugural tournament feels like the first chapter of something that can grow, inspire and bring even more people together.