Junior Sports Star: Tahlia Voskanian is on her way to achieving her dream of being a Matilda

She may well be the youngest on her team, but Tahlia Voskanian is demonstrating age is no barrier to talent.

Tahlia Voskanian is the Leader’s latest nominee for the Junior Sports Star award. Picture: Melvyn Knipe

• Batting for gold
• Free lessons with Australia’s diving coach of the year

She may well be the youngest on her team, but Tahlia Voskanian is demonstrating age is no barrier to talent.

The 10-year-old football prodigy from Edensor Park dreams of being a Matilda and spends hours upon hours training to replicate the success of her idols.

Tahlia was selected for the Southern Districts Women’s State League under-13 team, despite being just 10.

Up until last year the young athlete was playing park soccer and competing against local clubs.

“We quickly found out from park soccer that she had talent,” her mother, Renee Voskanian, said.

Tahlia is part of the Southern Districts Womens State League under-13 team even though she is only 10 years old. Picture: Melvyn Knipe

Upon receiving the call about Tahlia’s selection for the team, Ms Voskanian was surprised.

“I said, ‘do you realise she’s only 10?’” she said.

But football has been a part of the family for years and Tahlia’s passion for the game was fostered early on.

“She’s got an uncle who’s a huge soccer fan. He used to kick the ball around with her,” Ms Voskanian said.

“Any spare time at home she’s out the front kicking a ball,” she said.

“She’s not like other kids her age where they’re interested in electronics.”

Ms Voskanian said her daughter regularly showed commitment, dedication and good sportsmanship.

Tahlia is the Leader’s latest nominee for the Junior Sports Star award, sponsored by Rebel. To nominate someone you know see juniorsportsstar.com.au.