Football has again provided the backdrop for a wonderful community event, with the annual Corey New Cup being played between Lismore Workers FC and Goonellabah FC.
A tragic car accident in October 2006 claimed the lives of four young boys and impacted so wretchedly upon their respective families, with each having to cope with an unimaginable grief. The Corey New Cup had its origins in 2007 when former LWFC President, Brian Sharkey promoted the idea of playing a fixture to recognise Corey New, who had previously played for both Lismore Workers and Goonellabah. The concept was endorsed by Mark, Ann and Jesse New as a fitting way to honour their son and brother Corey, by playing a football match between the two clubs that had meant so much to him. Both clubs continue to support the fixture, which has become synonymous with local football each year since that first game in 2007.
Although the teams now use the annual game as an important trial opportunity, players and supporters are very respectful of the significance of the occasion. While a trophy is on offer, the underpinning purpose is to use football as means of reflecting on a young life lived, but lost way too soon. The event is also a collective coming together of family, friends and the broader community in a show of solidarity to the New Family, whose grieving continues regardless of how many years it is since that fateful day in 2006.
Football Far North Coast congratulates all who came together in great numbers to support Mark, Ann, Jesse and their extended family, to celebrate the memory of Corey New.
