State’s best girls descend on Wagga

The competition, to be held at Maher Oval in Wagga Wagga, will comprise eight teams split split into two divisions; a total of approximately 160 female footballers.

The teams will feature a raft of the state and territory’s most promising talent, highlighted by the inclusion of many previous NSW/ACT U18 Representatives and recent All School Representatives

NSW/ACT Female Programs Manager Libby Sadler says the carnival forms a key part of the footballing development of the group of girls.

“The State Cup is a very exciting time for everyone involved with female football in the region, and it’s fantastic that Riverina is hosting what’s always a special event,” Sadler said.

“The 2015 Youth Girls National Championships squad will be selected based on performances this weekend, and there will be plenty of new faces in the mix to join the team before the Championships next May.”

Division 1

Sydney Harbour, Canberra, Riverina

Players to watch:

o   Jodie Hicks – a young gun from Hay, although she has no regular football competition continues to prove herself as some of our best talent rewarded with selection in the All Australian team at this year’s Youth Girls National Championships held in Canberra

o   Jessica Stramandinoli – just returned from a tour of New Zealand, Jess is a dynamic and selfless player who will link well with her team mates to support and drive

o   Chloe Arndt – Currently playing with Kellyville in the Sydney Harbour Youth Girls Competition Chloe is a storng small forward target in the 50 who reads the ball with ease and bring a flair and finess to the role

Development Division

Sydney Harbour, Canberra, Albury, Central West, Central Coast/Hunter

This division is testament to the growth of female football across NSW in areas where female football was previously poorly represented.

o   Albury – a group of girls who participated in an after school program that will look to form the inaugural Lavington Panthers Youth Girls Team in a new competition starting in Albury/Wadonga on 2015.

o   Central Coast/Hunter – girls from the Central Coast and Newcastle leagues in their second and first season respectively. A new women’s competition will commence in BDAFL next year to support the pathway and growth of these teams.

o   Central West – a  collective of young women showing their passion or the game.

o   Sydney and Canberra – this side provides opportunities for younger players to experience the next level of football and a clear example of the depth of talent that is forming in the established regions.