It’s become an annual tradition for Edmontonians of African descent every summer. The weekend nearest to Canada Day is devoted to a soccer tournament that sees hundreds of participants hit the pitch from countries across the African continent.
“In order to celebrate Canada Day with meaning we {play} soccer,” Amandla Ngwenya, coordinator of the event, said.
This year the tournament is celebrating its ninth year in Edmonton.
It’s comprised of teams for children, women and men.
“Soccer is part of us,” Ngwenya said. “It brings all the African communities together.”
The event also serves as a summer social gathering and networking event for Edmontonians of African descent.
Participants representing over 20 different countries take part in the tournament.
This year, turnout is slightly lower because the event coincides with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
The event wrapped up Saturday afternoon.
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