Agricultural workers enjoy ‘spirited’ soccer tourney

Ten teams competed in the sixth annual Farms of Norfolk Soccer Tournament on August 10. 

Chris Abbott

Editor

The Farms of Norfolk Soccer Tournament celebrated agricultural workers on August 10.

Ten teams from Norfolk, Oxford, Brant and Haldimand counties, and Dundas competed at the Norfolk County Youth Soccer Park in Simcoe in a round-robin format tournament, followed by semifinals and finals.

Spirited soccer games, food, skills competition and music highlighted the sixth annual event.

“The (new) skills competition was really fun, they enjoyed it,” said Lynda Kohler, Executive Director, Grand River Community Health Centre. “It wasn’t easy to get the ball through those little rings, and someone got two.”

“That’s amazing,” said Maureen Acuna-Harrison, health promoter for the IAW Health Program at the Grand River Community Health Centre.

“It’s a little warm today, but better than rain,” laughed Carly Watson, Program Manager, Grand River Community Health Centre.

The annual tournament seems to draw a good crowd every year and August 10 was no exception.

“I think it’s the enthusiasm for the game and for getting together as a community… and having some fun with the workers,” said Kohler. “They look forward to it, they are excited to come. It is friendly competition…”

“There’s passion for sure,” said Acuna-Harrison.

“They are definitely passionate about soccer,” Kohler smiled, who thanked Carrie Sinkowski, past coordinator, for her vision and dedication laying the foundation for the Farms of Norfolk Soccer Tournament.

“Her (Sinkowski’s) legacy continues to inspire community-building through sport,” said Kohler in a media release.

“We also want to thank all the sponsors,” said Kohler. “That’s what makes it possible really, the community coming together to support.”

This year’s event was coordinated by the IAW Health Program at GRCHC/NFHT, whose support adds heart and vitality.

A new addition this year was the championship trophy, donated by the Rotary Club Norfolk Sunrise, said Acuna-Harrison.

It was awarded to the 2025 winning team from Brantford in celebration of their teamwork, excellence, and pride.

“The thing we heard was, ‘will we be doing a trophy presentation this year?’ I heard that loud and clear,” said Acuna-Harrison. “They wanted a trophy, so I ensured we got them a trophy. They’ll have bragging rights for year.”