The tour has taken the iconic trophy to all 32 of the tournament’s participating nations – more countries than ever before, with the aim to inspire people of all ages by ‘Going Beyond’ to celebrate the rocketing popularity of women’s football.
While the trophy was in Ōtautahi, ChristchurchNZ together with FIFA, Sport Canterbury, Christchurch Foundation, Women in Sport Waitaha and Dunedin City Council held a Trophy Tour Youth Breakfast. The morning was inspired by the theme of ‘Going Beyond’ and its mission to spotlight women and girls who are unleashing their creative spirit and accelerating the growth of women’s football.
Local students, parents and teachers were invited to Christchurch’s Town Hall for a morning of inspiration and insight from an outstanding panel of sporting heros. With the trophy present, there was a special opportunity for students to get up close and snap a photo before the event kicked off.
Radio presenter and sporting enthusiast Lesley Murdoch was the MC for the morning, and the panel included hockey superstar Gemma McCaw, rugby hero Ged Robinson, cricket champion Todd Astle, and football legends Melissa Ruscoe, Kristine Lilly and Maia Jackman.
Each presenter spoke of their hardships, highlights and heroes, sharing personal stories and insights into what made them who they are today and how they achieved great success in their careers. They each touched on the good times but also the challenging times. Even though all of their challenges were different, a clear theme emerged that getting through the tough times was where these champions were born.
