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A new organisation to provide meaningful opportunities to people of diverse, ethnic backgrounds in various sports activities has recently been launched in Auckland.
Called, ‘New Zealand Ethnic Community & Sports Incorporated’ (NZECSI) aims to create meaningful opportunities in Sports for people of diverse and Ethnic backgrounds.
Committee Member Maneel Kumar said that the new entity aims to encourage ethnic people to practice sports and learn life skills.
We have a big few years ahead with our primary focus being on growing local talent and teaching them the fundamentals of sport. It will be awesome to see these young people grow into future stars and have the opportunities that we have been fortunate enough to receive in New Zealand,” he said.
Although paucity of funds, the Organisation has the time and the desire to give back to our communities, he said.
“We have been lucky to have stars like Rocky Khan NZ 7s player (First player of Indian decent to play for the All Blacks 7s), Omar Slaimankhel (First person from Afghanistan to play in the New Zealand Rugby League) , David Bhana (first player of Indian decent to play in the NRL). All of them volunteer their time to help share their stories, run skills days to help inspire the next generation of ethnic children,” Mr Kumar said.
He said that NZECSI has partnered with Auckland Rugby League, NZ Fijian Rugby League & NRL Asia and is excited over the potential pathways that these associations offer.
“We will have a wide range of sports and competitions going from 1-day events to season competitions,” Mr Kumar said.
For further information, including details of upcoming events, please contact Maneel Kumar on 021-08346452. Email: maneel_kumar@hotmail.com. You can also connect on Facebook.
Photo:
David Bhana and Thailand International Eightt Saisir
(Picture Supplied)
