NCL created the now popular LACoN with the aim of hosting an event that will annually bring together African teams in festival of friendship through the game of football. LACON attracts Large number of Africans in the City as well as from across the Pennines/ Lancaster. The agenda was to boost community cohesion and use sports as a bridge and to establish a strategic alliance within the african community in the Leeds. It helps participants improve their lifestyle. It is a celebration of the hidden talents of members of the African diaspora in Leeds.
‘The official draw to pick teams for the cup last year was drawn by the CEO of Leeds City Council- Tom Riordan. This year’s draw will be made in May 19th at Thomas Danby College.
Now in its sixth year, LACoN is a football event organized by the Leeds based registered charity, Nigerian Community Leeds, or NCL. The Leeds African Cup of Nations attracts a large number of Africans in Leeds as well as from across the Pennines and Lancashire. African participants in the tournament represent their individual countries of birth although the tournament attracts many non African participants in multi-ethnic teams.
Mr Mousa John, the Secretary for the Gambian Welfare Society, said “This has been a great annual event thanks to NCL. It has enabled our Society to build a bridge with the young Gambians living in Leeds; as well as other Africans, Black, White and Asian citizens.”