Japan will take on Auckland City in a charity football match at Cessnock Sportsground on January 4.
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A proportion of ticket sales will go towards mental health support for young people in the Cessnock local government area.
The Japanese team will arrive in Cessnock on January 3 and have nine days training before their opening AFC Asian Cup match against Palestine in Newcastle on January 12.
Cessnock Youth Centre and Outreach Service (CYCOS) youth service coordinator Emily Cant is ecstatic at this announcement and believes this overwhelming support will make a huge difference in the youth community.
“The youth age bracket accounts for one of the largest sub-populations in our LGA and with Youth Week coming up in April 2015, it’s great timing for this generous gift to complement our planning,” she said.
“One in four young Australians currently has a mental health condition—these types of statistics are the reason we strive to promote positive mental health through supportive community activities.”
Ms. Cant and the CYCOS team are thrilled at the opportunities this additional funding will provide, allowing them to deliver fresher ideas and more diverse events, workshops and activities for local youth.
Cessnock Mayor Bob Pynsent is hoping for a sell-out match and hopes the community get in quick to be a part of this unique event.
“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see elite sportspeople of this level playing right here in Cessnock,” he said.
“I encourage the community to get behind this great initiative and buy tickets, as your contribution will have a positive impact on the lives of our young people.”
Tickets went on sale on Tuesday – $10 for general admission and $20 for grandstand seats. Phone 136 100 or visit ticketmaster.com.au.
