The Albury Wodonga Football Association (AWFA) Under 12 Girls Representative Team’s remarkable camaraderie and skills have earned them a spot playing at the Kanga Cup.
The Kanga Cup is the largest International Youth Football Tournament in the Southern Hemisphere and it’s held annually in Canberra.
This achievement, and others, were recognised when the team received the Wodonga Council Young Achievers Scheme award at the April Wodonga Council meeting.
Team coach Paige Hunt said the players had a competitive spirit that impressed everyone who came across them.
“There is a combination of qualities that make this team truly special, the girls demonstrate a deep love for football and give their all at every opportunity they get, and their enthusiasm and commitment to the sport are evident in their performance on the field,” she said.
Some of the girls have been playing together at the club level for years, and two players were in the rep squad last year.
It’s an under-12 team, but this consists of bottom-age players, with one member only nine.
The girls train together once a week as it complements their club training.
A recent success was when they placed second in their pool for the cup at Bendigo FC in the U12/13 competition.
Unfortunately, the physicality of a U13 team in the semi-final proved difficult, but the girls played an impressive tournament.
They’re thrilled to be taking on the best players at the Kanga Cup, something that hasn’t been done in recent memory by a Border team.
“Their love for the sport drives them to give their all in every opportunity they get,” Paige said.
“This invitation provides them a chance to showcase their skills and tenacity on a larger scale.”
Paige said young women were more than capable of playing any sport, and team sports were a powerful tool for helping girls grow and thrive in every aspect of their lives.
“Participation in team sports holds profound significance for young women, offering more than just a chance to play a game. It’s about feeling empowered, confident, and part of a community that enhances a sense of belonging and purpose,” she said.
The team thanked their parents for their unwavering support and dedication to make everything possible.
“We truly appreciate the sacrifices you make to ensure your daughters can pursue their passion for football, whether it’s travelling long distances to tournaments and training or providing endless encouragement from the sidelines,” they said.
“Your commitment is truly commendable and plays a vital role in our team’s success.”
The parents also gave a special shoutout to coach Paige, who was asked to take on the representative role this year after her success as the U12 Girls coach at Wodonga Diamonds.
Parents appreciate how easily she bonded with the team, who always enjoy her approach to the sport and associated ethics.
