Adelaide United adds seven locally produced teens to Lady Reds W-League squad
ADELAIDE United will pin its hopes on a new breed of local talent as it aims to break into the W-League finals for the first time.
ADELAIDE United will pin its hopes on a new breed of local talent as it aims to break into the W-League finals for the first time.
The squad features seven SA produced teenagers who have graduated from Football Federation SA’s National Training Centre program.
Speaking ahead of Sunday’s first home game of the season against Canberra United at Adelaide Shores, new recruit Dylan Holmes says the young guns are enjoying the step up.
“I didn’t think I would be playing W-League this year so it’s pretty crazy for us all to be part of it,” the 17-year-old central midfielder says.
“Playing with the older girls, I’ve already learned so much from them, but there’s a core group of NTC girls in the (Lady Reds) squad which has definitely helped.
“I’ve known some of these girls since I was 10 years old so being able to progress through with them and finally play in the Lady Reds with them is pretty special.”
FFSA’s under 14/15 girls team finished seventh in the SA women’s Premier League this season.
The NTC state squad also won last month’s national challenge in Canberra.
But Holmes, who won player of the tournament in the ACT, says development not winning is the focus.
“The program puts you in a more professional environment and situations you may not always be comfortable in, but in the end it will make you a better player,” the former Cumberland United and Fulham player says.
“Your development is the first priority whereas at clubs it’s more results driven.”
Holmes is joined in the Lady Reds squad for the first time by fellow NTC graduates Lauren Steer, Alex Chidiac and Gabby Bentley.
Monique Iannella, Emily Condon and Isabel Hodgson were on the United roster last year having previously been part of the NTC.
Head NTC and Lady Reds coach Ross Aloisi says playing alongside the likes of Matilda’s goalkeeper Melissa Barbieri and former England international Kristy Moore is invaluable for the youngsters.
“Our plan all along has been to produce our own players out of our NTC program,” the former Adelaide United men’s captain says.
“It’s a testament to the girls and the work they’ve put in throughout the season and shows we’re on the right path with the development of our players.”
The Lady Reds enjoyed their best season to date last summer, finishing 6th.