Our mission is to bring together newcomers, locals, and diverse cultural communities through the power of soccer. A celebration of unity, identity, and inclusion showcasing talent, building friendships, and promoting multicultural pride.
ISTNL today continues to grow in scope and vision with primary focus on community engagement. The organization stands as a symbol of unity, resilience, and the shared joy of soccer—a grassroots success story that bridges cultures and brings people together in the heart of Newfoundland and Labrador.
The first edition of the ISTNL tournament kicked off in the summer of 2022 and featured teams representing various cultural backgrounds, including local and international communities. Hosted in St. John’s, the tournament quickly gained attention for its vibrant atmosphere, competitive spirit, and the sense of belonging it gave to players and spectators alike.
The 2022 final—a classic rivalry between Nigeria and Tanzania laid the foundation for what would become an annual celebration of culture and sport.
Building on the momentum from its first year, ISTNL expanded in 2023 to include more teams, officials, wider community participation, and stronger partnerships with local businesses and the Mount Pearl Soccer Association. The tournament began to attract larger crowds and received positive feedbacks from the community.
Community leaders and multicultural associations began to recognize the tournament as not just a soccer event, but a vehicle for social connection, cultural celebration, and newcomer integration.
By 2024, ISTNL had become a key cultural event in the province. It welcomed teams from even more backgrounds and began to include youth involvement, family-friendly events, and volunteer opportunities.
ISTNL continues to grow in scope and vision. Plans are in motion to expand the tournament into a full fledged multicultural sports and arts festival, incorporating youth leagues, women’s teams, mentorship programs, and more community engagement through the game of soccer.
The ISTNL Tournament is more than just a competition. It’s a celebration of community, diversity, and shared passion for soccer. By bringing together people from different cultures and backgrounds, the tournament promotes mental and physical wellness, strengthens relationships, and provides a platform for talent and connection through the beautiful game of soccer.
