Talented Tasmanian footballers selected for their state

The next Tasmanian Matilda or Olyroo could be among the players selected for the state junior train-on squads announced by Football Tasmania today.

Squads for U14 girls, U16 girls, U14 boys and U15 boys have been selected, with a view to competing against other states including Football Victoria Talent ID squads and NPL and WNPL blubs pending domestic border restrictions. The squads were originally going to compete at the girls and boys Football Australia National Youth Championships which have been called off for 2021.

Football Tasmania CEO Matt Bulkeley congratulated all selected players, encouraging them to work hard at achieving their own personal goals.

“Being selected to represent your state at any level is a great achievement and all players should be very proud of themselves,” Mr Bulkeley said.

“Many of these talented players would have been watching Nathaniel Atkinson’s wonderful performances at the Olympics, and there’s no reason they can’t go on to emulate his achievements and compete at the highest level if that’s their dream.

“While it’s disappointing the national junior championships have been called off, we are working closely with other state federations to provide an opportunity for these players to test themselves against the best in the nation.

“It’s great to see players from all across the state have been selected, with strong representation from the north-west, north and south confirming just how popular the World Game has become in Tasmania.

“Incredibly, of the 92 players selected 18 are students at Taroona High School, which is something the school should also be very proud of.”