Auckland City FC and FIFA Club World Cup Trophy Receive Warm Welcome at Mount Roskill Intermediate

A Celebration of Football, Culture, and Community

AUCKLAND, New Zealand – Auckland City FC and the prestigious FIFA Club World Cup™ Trophy Tour were welcomed with open arms at Mount Roskill Intermediate, where a traditional whakatau ceremony set the stage for a momentous occasion.

The event brought together students, staff, and members of the local community in celebration of Auckland City FC’s historic qualification for the FIFA Club World Cup™ USA 2025. The presence of the coveted trophy added an extra layer of excitement, symbolizing the pinnacle of club football.

A Traditional Welcome for a Historic Achievement

The whakatau, a formal Māori welcome, was led by Mount Roskill Intermediate students and local kaumātua, paying tribute to the mana of both Auckland City FC and the globally revered FIFA Club World Cup™ trophy. The ceremony underscored the deep cultural ties between football, community, and indigenous heritage, reinforcing values of unity and respect.

Auckland City FC Chairperson Ivan Vuksich expressed his gratitude for the warm reception, acknowledging the importance of football’s role in connecting people.

“This was a truly special occasion for our club, and we are humbled by the support from Mount Roskill Intermediate and the wider community.

Football has the power to inspire and unite, and today’s whakatau reaffirmed our deep commitment to the students, staff, and families who are passionate about the game.”

Vuksich also emphasized Auckland City FC’s dedication to the Mount Roskill Schools Project, a multi-million dollar initiative aimed at creating a state-of-the-art sports facility featuring an all-weather playing surface, administration building, floodlights, and a designated warm-up area.

A Moment of Inspiration for the Next Generation

Students had the rare opportunity to see the FIFA Club World Cup™ trophy up close—a moment that left many in awe. As the trophy was unveiled, an audible gasp filled the hall, as young football enthusiasts took in the sight of the prize that will be lifted by the world’s best club team in New York this July.

Mount Roskill Intermediate School Board chairperson Kerry Martin highlighted the significance of the event and the ongoing partnership with Auckland City FC.

“We are immensely proud to host Auckland City FC and the FIFA Club World Cup™ trophy at our school. It is an honor to welcome this prestigious trophy into our community.”

“As Oceania’s representative at the newly expanded FIFA Club World Cup™, Auckland City FC faces a historic challenge against some of the world’s biggest clubs, and we stand proudly alongside them.”

“This beautiful trophy represents inspiration, achievement, partnership, and the global reach of football. At our school, over 200 students benefit from Auckland City FC’s community coaching program, providing real and lasting change in the heart of Mount Roskill.”

Martin also reiterated the significance of the Mount Roskill Schools Project, which will strengthen the connection between football and education while providing opportunities for young athletes for years to come.

Football’s Lasting Impact on the Community

Following the whakatau, Auckland City FC’s coaching programme took place on the grounds of the future sports facility, with students from nearby schools and Māori Football Aotearoa also in attendance. This initiative is part of Auckland City FC’s broader engagement strategy leading up to the FIFA Club World Cup™ USA 2025, with the club committed to using its platform to inspire young footballers and reinforce strong community ties.

Football fans will have another chance to see the FIFA Club World Cup Trophy™ when Auckland City FC hosts Tauranga City FC at Kiwitea Street at 3:00 PM for the opening match of the Northern League season.