MANNING Futsal hosted round one of the Australian National Schools Program this week at Saxby's Stadium Taree.
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The tournament attracted a record number of schools with more than 100 games played over three days.
The tournament kicked off on Monday with 14 years and 16 years boys taking the court, followed by an all girls tournament on Tuesday and 19 years boys on Wednesday.
For the organisers the highlights were the close results and standard of play. The high standard reflected just how much the skill level had improved since Manning Futsal began hosting school tournaments six years ago. While the quality of play was an outstanding feature, the tournament also gave the opportunity to many new players to experience the game of futsal.
Qualifying teams will now progress to the State Champion of Champions at Port Macquarie in August.
The Australian Champion of Champions is the final round of the program where qualifying schools will compete for the title of best school in Australia. This will be held in Queensland in November.
"The standard of play and behaviour of participants was exceptional. All players are to be congratulated not only for their sportsmanlike behaviour but also good manners in general. All schools entered should be very proud of their young ambassadors," tournament administrator, Cheryl Forbes said.
The 14 boys finished with a draw between Great Lakes College and Taree High, the result being determined by most goals scored as per tournament rules. Wingham High finished third narrowly missing out by just one point. In 16 boys Taree High was undefeated deserving their position in first place.
Great Lakes College and Taree High in both divisions will travel to Port Macquarie for round two in August. Also going to the next round will be Great Lakes College (Tuncurry) 13 boys.