Panama football comes to Taupo

7 May 2015

One of Panama's premier men's football teams is coming to Taupo next week in the lead up to the FIFA Under 20 World Cup.

The team, Los Canaleros, will be in Taupo from May 14-20 and train at Owen Delany Park. Team members will be officially welcomed at a mayoral morning tea with Mayor David Trewavas and go out on a lake cruise with Chris Jolly Outdoors.

Los Canaleros is the only international team staying in Taupo in the build up to the competition and Taupo District Mayor David Trewavas said it was a privilege to be able to roll out the welcome mat for them.

We are thrilled to be hosting an exciting team that we know is passionate about football and the world cup, he said. We hope these young men will enjoy their time in our spectacular district and take advantage of all the great activities we have on offer.

The team is holding open training sessions at Owen Delany Park every day from May 16-19 between 4pm and 6pm that the community is welcome to attend.

This year's tournament will mark Panama's fifth FIFA Under 20 World Cup appearance, all of which have come in the space of 12 years. Since their debut appearance in 2003, Los Canaleros have missed the 2009 and 2013 competitions.

The FIFA Under 20 World Cup is being held in New Zealand in late May and June with matches around the country. The final will be held in Auckland at North Harbour Stadium on June 20.

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FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Lisa Nairne Communications Manager 07 376 0762 027 839 8410

Vicki Waterhouse Communications Advisor 07 376 0718 027 484 2549

Taupo District Council

www.taupo.govt.nz