Thorndon Park Primary School student Mia Staykov nominated for 2023 School Sports Award

A fast-rising SA soccer star has become one of the state’s best young talents this year and has been nominated for an SA School Sports Award. See how to nominate here.

One of the state’s fastest rising soccer stars has the chance to win a major award after just one year in the sport.

12-year-old Thorndon Park Primary School student Mia Staykov sits among the state’s top young talents and has been nominated for the primary section of The Advertiser, Sunday Mail and Department for Education School Sports Awards for 2023.

A star goalkeeper for her school and for the Campbelltown City Soccer Club, Staykov said she was thrilled to be nominated for the first time.

“I’m very excited to be nominated for a School Sports Awards,” Staykov said.

“It would mean a lot to be recognised in the goalkeeping scene as there are not many girl goalkeepers.”

12-year-old Mia Staykov has been nominated for a 2023 School Sports Award. Picture: Child Expressions Photography

While new to the sport, Staykov has experienced a dramatic rise in her position.

After impressive performances in goal for Campbelltown and her school, she was selected in the School Sport U12 SA side and the Football SA U13 state team, while also winning a futsal championship.

“I love everything about soccer. When I first started playing I knew I wanted to be a goalkeeper as they have a very important role and I love the thrill of saving shots for my team,” Staykov said.

“I also love how you can be in a team with total strangers at first but eventually become best friends.”

Most recently Staykov played an important role for her U12 state side in last week’s national championships.

She showed great skill and composure in goal as her team finished fifth.

Staykov in action for Campbelltown City. Picture: Child Expressions Photography

“The national championship was so much fun,” she said.

“Our team played really well and I was challenged in a few games having to save some difficult shots.

“I had lots of compliments from referees and coaches from other states about my performances which was great.”

With Staykov quickly developing in soccer, she now has aspirations to play on the biggest stage.

“My goal in soccer is to one day play for the Matildas and represent my country.”

The School Sports Awards are the joint initiative of The Advertiser, Sunday Mail and Department for Education.

There are three major awards in 2023 – individual competitors, individual student officials, and teams, with female and male, and primary and secondary categories all included.

Enrolled primary or secondary students between the ages of 10-18 are eligible.

Nominate here by Sunday, November 5.