Regional girls are aiming to make a big impression at this week’s State Team selection camp with nearly half of the 61 players involved drawn from areas north of the South-East and South-West.
North Queensland, Far North Queensland, Central Queensland, Wide Bay and Mackay are all represented at the week-long camp at Meakin Park alongside the brightest talents from Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast and South-West Queensland.
Training and matches are being used to identify emerging talent for this year’s Westfield National Youth Championships for Girls, where Queensland is the reigning U13 Champion.
Ellie Hampson and India Kubin – two of 11 Northern Fury players taking part in the camp – are both seeking selection in the U15 squad and are enjoying the opportunity to test their ability.
“It’s a higher intensity,” Kubin said.
“I’m glad that all of us came down to show our talent – it’s been good so far.”
Away from the pitch, the camp is a chance for girls from across the state to meet and get to know their potential future teammates.
“We’re having a good time,” Hampson said.
“All of the girls are bonding really well and we’re meeting all of the Brisbane and Sunshine Coast girls and getting along really well.
“The coaches are awesome, the fields are awesome, it’s really good down here.”
Football Queensland State Technical Director David Abela believes the camp will be of signficant benefit for all regional players.
“It’s great experience for them and a good opportunity to test themselves at a higher level,” Abela said.
“Hopefully they take what they learn from this camp and use it to continue to improve at club level.”
Check out images from this week’s State Team Girls selection camp at Football Queensland’s Facebook page!