Touch Football Australia (TFA) in conjunction with Sunshine Coast Council (SCC) are pleased to announce that the DoorDash National Youth Championships (NYC) will continue to be held on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, following a three-year partnership extension (2021-2023).
The NYC has been held on the Sunshine Coast for 13 of the last 15 years and has more than doubled in size since its inception, contributing an estimated $35 million to the region.
It is an exciting time for the event, with TFA confirming that the Under 12s, 14s and 16s age-group divisions trialled in 2020 will remain and become standard. These changes will further increase participation and visitors to the region. At last year's trial and prior to border restrictions limiting interstate teams' access, TFA received 112 team nominations, representing a 50% increase on 2019 team numbers.
TFA CEO, Jamie O'Connor is excited that the NYC will remain on the Sunshine Coast.
"TFA has had a long and successful partnership with Sunshine Coast Council and we're excited to extend that relationship and have our DoorDash National Youth Championships event remain on the Sunshine Coast," he said.
'The Sunshine Coast is an appealing destination for our participants, and it is important that we provide our community with access to the fantastic facilities and attractions that this region offers.
"With the expanded event format, I look forward to delivering strong economic returns to the region as well as an enhanced experience for our community."
Economy Portfolio Councillor, Jason O'Pray said Sunshine Coast Council was pleased to continue supporting the Championships.
"Events such as these play an important role in our community, with each event expected to attract 3,000 visitors to the region, injecting over $4 million into our local economy and showcasing our region's natural beauty and excellent local businesses," Cr O'Pray said.
The NYC has a rich history and in recent times has been a key pathway event, with former alumni including the likes of Clive Churchill Medallist Ryan Papenhuyzen, Knights superstar Kalyn Ponga and Queensland Women's Origin stars Tamika Upton and Tarryn Aiken.
The 2021 DoorDash National Youth Championships are being held at Sunshine Coast Stadium from Wednesday 29th September to Saturday 2nd October 2021.
