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Australia’s next generation of Matildas soccer players

The Matildas’ World Cup ride thrust football into the spotlight - here are more than 250 reasons that prove the code is thriving. SEE THE FULL LIST

Matildas arrive back in Brisbane after semifinal

Here are 250 more reasons women’s football is exploding across Australia.

The Matildas’ wild and wonderful World Cup ride thrust the code into the spotlight like never before and we have unearthed the next generation of talents ready for their chance to shine.

From Cairns and Darwin in the north to Hobart in the south and Perth in the west, we have compiled more than 250 names of rising female football talents to watch.

SEE THE FULL LIST BELOW

TASMANIA

Elianna Diafokeris of Clarence Zebras. Picture: Linda Higginson / Solstice Digital
Elianna Diafokeris of Clarence Zebras. Picture: Linda Higginson / Solstice Digital

ELIANNA DIAFOKERIS

Club: Clarence

Age: 15

Position: Striker

Scored the second-highest tally of goals in the WSL last year at just 15 years of age, and received the league’s Rising Star award. The striker turned 16 last month and after a strong national championships campaign last year, missed out this year with an ACL injury.

Graciella Baez of Clarence Zebras Picture: Linda Higginson/Solstice Digital
Graciella Baez of Clarence Zebras Picture: Linda Higginson/Solstice Digital

GRACIELLA BAEZ

Club: Clarence

Age: 15

Position: Central midfielder

Known for her strong passing ability Baez, who turns 16 next month, is a holding midfielder and regarded by some as technically the best young player in the state.

Amelie Millar of Launceston City Picture: Linda Higginson/Solstice Digital
Amelie Millar of Launceston City Picture: Linda Higginson/Solstice Digital

AMELIE MILLAR

Club: Launceston City

Age: 14

Position: Goalkeeper

Millar was a standout at last year’s national championships as an underage player, and was identified by a Football Australia junior coach as being potentially one of the most promising young keepers in the country.

HOLLIE JONES

Club: Launceston City

Age: 15

Position: Striker

Jones has played in boys sides most of her life, but started playing mainly women’s football this year.

LUCY SMITH

Club: Launceston United

Age: 16

Position: Wing/midfield

Has already become an influential player for Launceston United in the WSL. Her speed, athleticism and willingness to take defenders has caused headaches on the wing, but Smith can also play midfield.

ADDISON BROADBENT

Club: Hobart City Beachside

Age: 14

Position: Defender

The multi-talented central defender is also skipper of her Australian Rules side at Kingborough Tigers.

Jasmine Williams of South Hobart Picture: Linda Higginson/Solstice Digital
Jasmine Williams of South Hobart Picture: Linda Higginson/Solstice Digital

JASMINE WILLIAMS

Club: South Hobart

Age: 14

Position: Midfielder

A central midfielder who has a dogged, tenacious attitude to win possession. Had a good passing range and is strong on the ball.

CASEY BUMFORD

Club: Kingborough

Age: 14

Position: Wing/striker

Another player who juggles football with Aussie Rules commitments, Bumford has rapidly improved her game.

NSW

Jynaya Dos Santos in action.
Jynaya Dos Santos in action.

Jynaya Dos Santos

Sydney FC, 17, Striker

A rising star of the famous Sydney FC club Dos Santos impressed with her goalscoring prowess on the international stage by scoring three goals against Kyrgyz Republic, Lebanon, and Guam to help secure Australia’s AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup qualification.

Young Matildas players Jynaya Dos Santos and Indiana Dos Santos at Alliance Stadium. Picture by Renee Nowytarger
Young Matildas players Jynaya Dos Santos and Indiana Dos Santos at Alliance Stadium. Picture by Renee Nowytarger

Indiana Dos Santos

Sydney FC, 15, Midfielder

The young midfielder broke multiple records during Sydney FC’s Liberty A-League Women double winning campaign when she became the Sky Blues youngest ever debutant at just 15 years and 117 days back in March.

Shay Hollman playing for Sydney FC.
Shay Hollman playing for Sydney FC.

Shay Hollman

Sydney FC, 17, Midfielder

Central midfielder Shay Hollman burst onto the scene as a 16-year old in the Sky Blues Premiership winning squad of 2021-22.

Matildas players celebrate winning the FIFA Womens World Cup match against France.
Matildas players celebrate winning the FIFA Womens World Cup match against France.

Tahlia Franco

Sydney FC, Goalkeeper, 17,

Despite her youth, Tahlia Franco has already been earmarked as a rising star of the game and talented goalkeeper.

Kirsty Fenton

Sydney FC, 19, Defender

The 19-year-old defender was one of the stars for Australia at the Under 20 Women’s World Cup in Costa Rica last year, scoring in front of 22,000 fans against the home nation in a 3-1 win for the Young Matildas.

Maya Lobo

Macarthur Rams, 17, Defender

Recently picked up for the Central Coast Mariners return to the A League Women’s, 17-year-old Maya Lobo’s reputation has preceded her.

Peta Trimis. Picture: Football Australia
Peta Trimis. Picture: Football Australia

Peta Trimis

Bulls FC Academy, 17, Defender

Another defender recently announced for the Mariners, Peta Trimis has been making a solid name for herself in the NSW NPL Women’s with Bulls FC Academy this season, after previously representing Football NSW Institute.

Sienna Dale in the NSW NPL Womens. Picture: Manly United
Sienna Dale in the NSW NPL Womens. Picture: Manly United

Sienna Dale

Manly United FC, 16, Forward

Sienna Dale has been a consistent feature for Manly United since being called up to the first grade team this year at only 15-years-old.

India Breier. Picture: Football Australia
India Breier. Picture: Football Australia

Mary Stanic-Floody

NWS Spirit, 17, Midfielder

At 17-years-old Mary Stanic-Floody has already been a feature in the A-League Women’s scene for Sydney FC, playing in 12 games during the 2022/23 championship-winning season.

India Breier

Macarthur Rams, 17, Forward

Currently playing for the NPL NSW reigning champions Macarthur Rams, India Breier has been in and around the top level of football for most of her junior career.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Grace Wilson

Age: 18

Clubs: Adelaide United, Young Matildas, SA U18s

Position: Goalkeeper

Goalkeeper Grace Wilson. Picture: Damian Briggs/Speedmedia
Goalkeeper Grace Wilson. Picture: Damian Briggs/Speedmedia

Grace Wilson started playing soccer at 10 years old and by 12 had already been singled out to play as a goalkeeper.

Florence Russell

Age: 16

Club: Sturt Lions FC

Position: Striker, attacking midfielder, left/right winger

Daughter of former Collingwood AFL player Scott Russell, Florence Russell has managed to carve out her own reputation as a formidable goal scorer in her own sport.

Florence Russel. Picture: Supplied
Florence Russel. Picture: Supplied
Meleri Mullan. Picture: Supplied
Meleri Mullan. Picture: Supplied

Meleri Mullan

Age: 23

Club: West Adelaide

Position: Winger

Meleri Mullan was signed to Adelaide United at 18 but she was forced to resign when she had an ACL reconstruction in the 2020-21 season.

Emilia “Milsy” Murray

Age: 18

Clubs: Northern Tigers FC, Adelaide United

Position: Striker, winger

Emilia “Milsy” Murray. Picture: Supplied
Emilia “Milsy” Murray. Picture: Supplied

Emilia “Milsy” Murray captained the Young Matildas at the Pacific Four Nations Tournament last year.

Kate Seaton

Age: 18

Club: Adelaide City

Position: Winger

Kate Seaton, of Grange, was selected at nationals to play for the Australian schoolgirl’s soccer team in the US and says the opportunity was “an amazing experience”.

Erin Kontoutsikos

Age: 17

Clubs: Adelaide United, SA U18s

Position: Fullback

Erin Kontoutsikos. Picture: Supplied
Erin Kontoutsikos. Picture: Supplied

Erin Kontoutsikos made her A-league debut at 17 playing for Adelaide United and has been awarded a scholarship playing for the club.

Stella Wieczorek

Age: 16

Club: SA U18s

Position: Midfielder

Stella Wieczorek. Picture: Supplied
Stella Wieczorek. Picture: Supplied

At only 16 years of age, Stella Wieczorek was selected to be part of the Junior Matildas training camp this year.

Layla Barbaro

Age: 16

Clubs: SA U18s

Position: Winger

Layla Barbaro. Picture: Supplied
Layla Barbaro. Picture: Supplied

Layla Barbaro was a finalist in the 2020 Messenger School Sports Awards

.

Mia Trimboli

Age: 13

Club: Football SA U15s

Position: Goalkeeper

Goalkeeper Mia Trimboli. Picture: Supplied
Goalkeeper Mia Trimboli. Picture: Supplied

At only 13 years of age, Mia Trimboli has already attended two of Junior Matilda’s training camps.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

WA goalkeeper Jessica Skinner. Picture: Supplied.
WA goalkeeper Jessica Skinner. Picture: Supplied.

Jessica Skinner

Position: Goalkeeper

Local club: Football West NTC

The 16-year-old is an incredible athlete who has the ability to pull off great saves both low and high.

WA centre back Ruby Cuthbert. Picture: Supplied.
WA centre back Ruby Cuthbert. Picture: Supplied.

Ruby Cuthbert

Position: Centre back

Local club: Football West NTC

At the age of 16, Cuthbert is already playing at open age NPL senior level and is the Junior Matildas captain.

WA midfielder Ischia Brooking. Picture: Supplied.
WA midfielder Ischia Brooking. Picture: Supplied.

Ischia Brooking

Position: Midfielder

Local club: Football West NTC

The 15-year-old Junior Matilda is a bright prospect who plays at an open age senior level in the local NPL competition in WA.

Georgia Cassidy, Grace Johnson and Tanika lala. Picture: Supplied.
Georgia Cassidy, Grace Johnson and Tanika lala. Picture: Supplied.

Georgia Cassidy

Position: Defensive midfielder

Local club: Football West NTC

If you saw Cassidy in action, you will quickly realise how well she is able to pass the ball.

Grace Johnson

Position: Midfielder

Local club: Football West NTC

The Perth Glory contracted player has the ability to create many opportunities for her teammates and is able to score from long range on a consistent basis.

WA striker Tanika lala. Picture: Supplied.
WA striker Tanika lala. Picture: Supplied.

Tanika lala

Position: Striker

Local club: Football West NTC

The speedy striker joined the NTC program after moving from the regional area of Kalgoorlie.

WA midfielder Jessica Johnson. Picture: Supplied.
WA midfielder Jessica Johnson. Picture: Supplied.

Jessica Johnson

Position: Midfielder

Local club: Murdoch Melville

The 14-year-old is an attacking midfielder with great skills, elegance and an eye for goal. Johnson is known to be strong in one-on-ones and has scored 11 goals so far in the WNPL season in WA.

WA midfielder Hannah Reynolds. Picture: Supplied.
WA midfielder Hannah Reynolds. Picture: Supplied.

Hannah Reynolds

Position: Midfielder

Local club: Football West NTC

A player with good vision who works hard and is physically tough in the midfield. Reynolds is 14-years-old and has a bright future ahead.

VICTORIA

Shirley Rudd

Shirley Rudd has been starring at an under 12 and 13 level. Picture: Geelong Rangers.
Shirley Rudd has been starring at an under 12 and 13 level. Picture: Geelong Rangers.

New to the Rangers, Rudd has been a key player at an under-12/13 level this season, showing speed, superb ball skills and a grit and determination to win the leather at both ends of the pitch.

Indie Ball

Indie Ball has been impressive in the midfield for Geelong Rangers. Picture: Geelong Rangers.
Indie Ball has been impressive in the midfield for Geelong Rangers. Picture: Geelong Rangers.

Usually found prowling the midfield, Ball has contributed to the club’s under-12 metro team – which currently sits on top of the table – despite being the youngest in the squad.

Ayla Corbet

Ayla Corbet is a star of the future for Geelong Rangers. Picture: Geelong Rangers.
Ayla Corbet is a star of the future for Geelong Rangers. Picture: Geelong Rangers.

A young Ranger showing lots of potential, Corbet plays in the club’s under-15 community team and represented the Geelong region at the country championships in Ballarat at the same level, back in June.

Lahni Malone

The 12-year old is a hardworking and determined midfielder who constantly challenges the opposition to gain possession, and recently played in the under-12 country championships.

Maddison Scade

Maddison Scade has been a dynamo in the midfield for Leopold. Picture: Leopold Soccer Club.
Maddison Scade has been a dynamo in the midfield for Leopold. Picture: Leopold Soccer Club.

A dynamo in the midfield, the 11-year-old has been instrumental in creating turnovers and maintaining possession.

Meg Swinton

The 16-year-old has been performing well in the club’s division 1 team, more than holding her own on the pitch with tremendous skill.

Lily Harris

The 12-year-old has excelled against players much older than her in the under-15s competition, playing with her twin sisters.

Sawyer Cornish

In a similar vein to Harris, the 10-year-old is also performing strongly in the under-13 competition.

“Despite the size difference with most of her opponents, Sawyer is a pillar of Drysdale’s defence,” club secretary Tara Wearne said.

Evie Stosic

The 12-year-old midfielder loves taking on an opponent and scoring goals in the under-14/15 girls competition, as well as the under-13 metro boys comp.

Amillia Kozina

Piper Mazaraki is a quick and skilful defender for Geelong. Picture: Geelong Football Club.
Piper Mazaraki is a quick and skilful defender for Geelong. Picture: Geelong Football Club.

The 13-year-old midfielder isn’t scared to take on any opponent and never, ever gives up.

Boasting a terrific shot, Kozina is currently playing in the under-15 metro girls team.

Anastazia Simic

The sleek striker, 13, plays in the under-16 metro girls competition and thrives on scoring goals.

She will also join Stosic on the European trip next year.

Ayla Nikolovski

The 11-year-old striker and captain has struck 31 goals in just 16 games this year.

The left and right-footed attacker also brings her teammates into the game with some deadly through balls.

Willow Juresko

The 12-year-old centre back, sweeper and vice-captain is a rock solid defender who has speed to burn, can dribble her way out of defence and even pop up for a long distance goal.

Piper Mazaraki

A quick and skilful defender, the 11-year-old is hard to beat and is known to go on destructive runs down the wing while producing a penetrating passes for her forwards.

Dusty Colegate

The 10-year-old midfielder and winger is very fit and athletic who can glide past players down the wing and chase opposition midfielders to regain possession.

Penny Macfarlane

Penny Macfarlane has flourished in her first season in the sport. Picture: Lara United Football Club.
Penny Macfarlane has flourished in her first season in the sport. Picture: Lara United Football Club.

Macfarlane came into the club’s under-11 team at the start of the year — her first season in the sport.

Lucy Tsilemanis

Usually an attacking midfielder or forward in the under-12/13 competition, Tsilemanis is strong on both legs and can play on the wing also.

Hana Bigmore

An impressive all-rounder, Bigmore can be found in the midfield, up forward kicking goals or preventing them as a keeper in the under-14/15 team.

Leisel Huddart

Leisel Huddart is a highly skilful midfielder with excellent passing and shooting range for the Geelong Galaxy. Picture: Geelong Galaxy.
Leisel Huddart is a highly skilful midfielder with excellent passing and shooting range for the Geelong Galaxy. Picture: Geelong Galaxy.

Playing in the under-17 competition, Huddart is a highly skilful midfielder with excellent passing and shooting range, who was recently elevated into the club’s senior women’s team.

Madeline Gay

Madeline Gay is a very skilful goalkeeper for Geelong Galaxy. Picture: Geelong Galaxy.
Madeline Gay is a very skilful goalkeeper for Geelong Galaxy. Picture: Geelong Galaxy.

A very skilful goalkeeper, Gay has excellent hands and feet who can intercept long balls.

Jorja Svoboda

A very quick and versatile full back and winger, Svoboda has stepped up to play senior women’s football with Geelong Galaxy.

Luca Bode

Luca Bode plays for Barwon Heads Soccer Club. Picture: Barwon Heads Soccer Club.
Luca Bode plays for Barwon Heads Soccer Club. Picture: Barwon Heads Soccer Club.

The 10-year-old Barwon Heads winger started playing football at the age of five, and has gone on to win an under-9s coaches award and was selected for the Geelong region at the under-12s state country championships.

Liv Lawrence

Joining Barwon Heads at an under-9 level, she quickly found her niche as a goalie.

Now playing in the club’s under-15 team, Lawrence honed her skills in the backyard playing with her little brother.

Emma Borschmann

A player of about a decade, and a referee for three, Borschmann can be relied upon at left back for Barwon Heads.

Tahalia O’Brien

The 14-year-old Surf Coast winger has scored a bunch of awards since making her debut in 2017 in the under-9 competition, including an under-13 best and fairest and equal seventh in the league last year in the under-14/15 competition.

Tatum Marsh

Starting at Surf Coast in the under-10 competition, Marsh scored a coaches award at the under-13 level and a best and fairest in the under-14/15 competition last season.

Sienna Hagigeorgiou

Coming into the sport a little later than her contemporaries, Hagigeorgiou has developed at a rapid rate, and is performing well in the under-15 competition.

Amelia Tartaglia

Age: U15 (2008)

Position: centre-back

The strong centre-back has been a part of the FV NTC program for two years and is captain of the Under-15 group. A Junior Matilda and Victoria representative in 2022.

Poppy O’Keeffe

Age: U15 (2008)

Position: attacking midfielder

A part of the FV NTC program for two years and relocated to Melbourne from Wodonga this season, joining the Maribyrnong Sports Academy. A Junior Matilda and Victoria representative in 2022, O’Keefe is a creative midfielder with excellent technique.

Cece Los

Age: U15 (2008)

Position: centre-back

The Victoria representative earned an invite to Junior Matildas camp off the back of her strong form in 2022 and has been a part of the FV NTC program for two years.

Ehva Gutszmit in action for FV Emerging.
Ehva Gutszmit in action for FV Emerging.

Ehva Gutszmit

Age: U17 (2007)

Position: defensive midfielder

Stepped up to the FV Emerging squad in the NPL this season having been a part of the FV NTC program for three years and has previously been a part of Junior Matildas camp.

Clancy Westaway

Age: U17 (2007)

Position: attacking midfielder

Has been a part of the FV NTC program for three years and has Junior Matildas and Victoria representative experience under her belt.

Annabelle Yates

Age: U17 (2007)

Position: fullback

Has stepped up to the senior FV Emerging squad this season after moving down to Melbourne from Wodonga.

Georgia Groidis

Age: U17 (2008)

Position: striker

Earnt a place in Melbourne City’s train-on squad after impressing in the NTC Under-17 team, while also being a member of the FV NTC program for three years and Junior Matildas and Victoria squads last year.

Nia Mohd Salleh

Age: U17 (2007)

Position: winger

A part of Melbourne Victory’s pathway program after being a member of the FV NTC program for three years and scoring an invite to Junior Matildas camp and representing Victoria in 2022.

Chloe McKenzie

Age: U17 (2006)

Position: goalkeeper

Joined the FV NTC Program this year after impressing for Bayside United. A Victoria representative last season who possess strong leadership, is calm under pressure and has good distribution from the back.

Aimie Adcock

Age: U18, FV Emerging (2005)

Position: striker, winger

A quick, technically strong forward who can strike a ball from long-range. A train-on player with Melbourne Victory in 2021 and has been a part of the FV NTC program for five years and represented Victoria since 2019.

Alana Cortellino

Age: U18, FV Emerging (2006)

Position: winger

Has plenty of experience through four years of the FV NTC program, Victoria representative, Football Australia Future Matildas program and Melbourne Victoria pathways program.

Anika Dovaston

Age: U19, FV Emerging (2004)

Position: attacking midfielder

Is captain of the FV Emerging NPLW squad this season after seven years in the FV NTC program and four-time Victoria representative (2018-19, 2022-23). Part of the Melbourne Victory pathways program.

Victoria’s Steph Catley celebrates the Matildas’ win. Picture: Mark Stewart
Victoria’s Steph Catley celebrates the Matildas’ win. Picture: Mark Stewart
Kyra Cooney-Cross came through the FV Emerging program.
Kyra Cooney-Cross came through the FV Emerging program.

Caitlin Karic

Age: U18, FV Emerging (2005)

Position: striker

Currently on Melbourne City’s A-League roster, has represented the Young Matildas and is part of Football Australia’s Future Matildas program. Has been in the FV NTC program for four years and played senior NPLW in the FV Emerging squad.

Carina Rossi

Age: U17, FV Emerging (2007)

Position: attacking midfielder

Trains with Melbourne City after being a part of the FV NTC program for two years, represented Victoria, been in Junior Matildas camp and featured a senior level with the FV Emerging NPLW squad.

Anna Liacopoulos

Age: U18, FV Emerging (2006)

Position: centre-back

Strong centre-back who isn’t afraid to get stuck into hard tackles and also strong aerially. Earned a Melbourne Victory scholarship contract.

Charlotte Hrehoresin

Age: U18, FV Emerging (2006)

Position: goalkeeper

A Melbourne City train-on player and part of the Football Australia Future Matildas program. The shot-stopper has a strong presence behind the ball having been part of the FV NTC program for two years.

Sophie Dehne

Age: U18, FV Emerging (2006)

Position: goalkeeper

A Melbourne Victory train-on player and part of the Football Australia Future Matildas program. Strong hands allow her to stop aerial attacks and has a clean left foot. A member of the FV NTC program for two years.

Isabelle Accardo from FV Emerging.
Isabelle Accardo from FV Emerging.

Isabella Accardo

Age: U18, FV Emerging (2005)

Position: centre-back

Played eight games for Melbourne City last A-League season and is part of the FV Emerging squad for the NPLW season. A part of the FV NTC program for five years and Victoria representative since 2018.

Silver Bell Morris

Age: U19, FV Emerging (2004)

Position: centre-back

Belies her age with her anticipation and understanding of the game. Has signed on at Western United after seven years in the FV NTC program and remains a key player for the FV Emerging squad in the NPLW.

Kiera Meyers

Age: U17, FV Emerging (2007)

Position: winger

Only one year in the FV NTC program but is already a Victoria representative, Junior Matilda and Melbourne City train-on player.

Ava Piazza

Age: U18 (2005)

Club: Heidelberg United

Position: centre-back

The NSW native relocated to Melbourne this season and has already represented Victoria. Was part of the NTC program in NSW.

Fiorina Iaria

Age: U18 (2006)

Club: Calder United

Position: winger

The attacker loves to take on defenders and find the back of the net. Originally from Shepparton, the Victoria representative plays for NPLW power Calder United and has three goals this season.

Fiorina Iaria in action for Calder United.
Fiorina Iaria in action for Calder United.

Naomi Thomas-Chinnama

Age: U19, FV Emerging (2004)

Position: centre-back

A Junior Matilda and Young Matilda and has already made several A-League appearances for Melbourne City.

Ava Briedis

Age: U18 (2006)

Club: Heidelberg United

Position: attacking midfielder

Broke through for her A-League debut with Melbourne Victory after three years in the FV NTC program.

Rosie Curtis

Age: U19 (2004)

Club: Box Hill United

Position: attacking, defensive midfielder

Possesses a strong passing range with good accuracy and doesn’t mind a hit on goal.

NORTHERN TERRITORY

Sophia Makrylos (Hellenic)

Hellenic star Sophia Makrylos has proven herself yet again in the 2023 NT Football Women's Premier League. Picture: Daniel Abrantes
Hellenic star Sophia Makrylos has proven herself yet again in the 2023 NT Football Women's Premier League. Picture: Daniel Abrantes

The Hellenic striker is an under-18 who has a great shot and pace. She has a good eye for goal and is able to find the right pass.

Jazz Forwood (Hellenic)

The Hellenic striker has a good eye for the goal and is also able to play good passes to her teammates.

The captain is one of the deadliest players in WPL history and after a massive 2022 continues to show her value in the new campaign.

Cassie McWilliam (Mindil)

Cassie McWilliam has plenty of talent.
Cassie McWilliam has plenty of talent.

The Mindil winger comes up to the Territory to play from interstate while balancing her football commitments down south.

Leesa Makrylos (Hellenic)

Leesa Makrylos can be absolutely devastating every time she takes the field for Hellenic in the 2023 NT Football Women's Premier League. Picture: Daniel Abrantes
Leesa Makrylos can be absolutely devastating every time she takes the field for Hellenic in the 2023 NT Football Women's Premier League. Picture: Daniel Abrantes

The Hellenic centre midfielder is a pit bull who will go all day with her tackling, creativity, chasing and running.

She was the Challenge Cup player of the tournament and has seven goals and four assists this season.

Rhiarna Myatt (Hellenic)

Hellenic's Rhiarna Myatt has a devastating presence in the 2023 NT Football Women's Premier League. Picture: Daniel Abrantes
Hellenic's Rhiarna Myatt has a devastating presence in the 2023 NT Football Women's Premier League. Picture: Daniel Abrantes

Myatt is a devastating presence when she has taken to the field this season with her speed, strength and technical ability.

Lauren Riley (Mindil)

Lauren Riley hit the ground running for Mindil Aces in the 2023 NT Football Women's Premier League. Picture: Daniel Abrantes
Lauren Riley hit the ground running for Mindil Aces in the 2023 NT Football Women's Premier League. Picture: Daniel Abrantes

A new player to the Women’s Premier League in 2023 who has hit the ground running with five goals and five assists to her name.

Emma Ryan (Mindil)

A silky winger who has pace and will run all day. Ryan was player of the year in 2022.

She also represented the NT under-14’s in the National Youth Championship at Coffs Harbour last year.

Tayah Hartog (Hellenic)

Hellenic goalkeeper Tayah Hartog has been very impactful in the 2023 NT Football Women's Premier League. Picture: Daniel Abrantes
Hellenic goalkeeper Tayah Hartog has been very impactful in the 2023 NT Football Women's Premier League. Picture: Daniel Abrantes

A goalkeeper who is a gun, Hartog reads the game well and is a top-notch shot stopper with three clean sheets to her name this season.

Yazmina Lipinski (Mindil)

After having been a Women’s Premier League Reserves regular for a number of years, Lipinski made the leap to WPL football in 2022 and tied for second place in the race for the golden glove.

Moska Papadakis (Hellenic)

With one assist off her 2022 total tally for goals and assists, Papadakis has been one of the biggest improvers in the Women’s Premier League this season.

Jubilee Weo (Darwin Hearts)

Darwin Hearts' Jubilee Weo has shown her great skills in the 2023 NT Football Women's Premier League. Picture: Daniel Abrantes
Darwin Hearts' Jubilee Weo has shown her great skills in the 2023 NT Football Women's Premier League. Picture: Daniel Abrantes

A utility for Darwin Hearts with great skills and it comes as no surprise having been a consistent performer for a number of years now.

Cecilia Misob (Darwin Hearts)

A big improver from her 2022 season totals, already more than doubling her return in both categories Cecilia plays a huge leadership role for the Hearts.

Kaitlyn Sowry (Casuarina)

Casuarina's Kaitlyn Sowry has shown her talents in the 2023 NT Football Women's Premier League. Picture: Daniel Abrantes
Casuarina's Kaitlyn Sowry has shown her talents in the 2023 NT Football Women's Premier League. Picture: Daniel Abrantes

The forward is quick and strong and has been absolute devastating every time she’s taken the field.

Extremely talented and technically gifted, Sowry’s performances have been able to shine through a very young and developing Rowdettes side.

Lauren Douglas (Casuarina)

The midfielder plays up front and is quick and strong and will run all day.

Douglas has three goals and an assist to her name this campaign following a 2022 campaign where she was an absolute ball magnet.

Khalyn Tran (Casuarina)

A silky player who has very good skills and is good on the ball.

One of the youngest players in the WPL and after spending some time away in NSW with Sydney Olympic Tran has been able to refine her trade.

Grace Doughty (Darwin Olympic)

Darwin Olympics' Grace Doughty has been one of the most consistent players in the 2023 NT Football Women's Premier League. Picture: Daniel Abrantes
Darwin Olympics' Grace Doughty has been one of the most consistent players in the 2023 NT Football Women's Premier League. Picture: Daniel Abrantes

Having made the move from Port Darwin to Darwin Olympic, Doughty is one of the

most consistent and high tempo players in the league.

Carli-Anne Tielen (Darwin Olympic)

She doesn’t often get the recognition she deserves but Tielen is one of the most experienced goalkeepers in the women’s game in the Top End.

Maria Billias (Hellenic)

Hellenic's Maria Billas is showing improvement in each and every game in the 2023 NT Football Women's Premier League. Picture: Daniel Abrantes
Hellenic's Maria Billas is showing improvement in each and every game in the 2023 NT Football Women's Premier League. Picture: Daniel Abrantes

A fullback who is strong, smart and calm, Billias, has a good throw in and will only get better as she develops into the game.

Fate-Anna Tom (Hellenic)

A solid experienced midfielder who reads the game well, Tom has good strength and is deceivingly fast as well as being a vocal leader who can bring the best out of teammates.

Teagan McWilliam (Mindil)

A centre back who loves a challenge and is strong on the ball, hardly anything gets past McWilliam.

She also chips in on the offence with an assist to her name this season.

Grace Amidy (Darwin Olympic)

Grace Amidy of Darwin Olympic in action against Darwin Hellenic (2022).
Grace Amidy of Darwin Olympic in action against Darwin Hellenic (2022).

The 13-year-old Darwin Olympic prodigy has had a massive rise in the 2023 season joining the women’s premier league for the first time.

Having already scored on arch rivals Hellenic the central midfielder is sure to impress in Darwin for years to come.

Mary Koum (Hellenic)

An under-18 sweeper who was best on ground in the Challenge Cup final and continues to pile on the solid performances.

Erin Gold (Darwin Olympic)

A midfielder who can also play further forward or back when she is required to.

Gold represented the NT under-14s at the National Youth Championship in Coffs Harbour last year.

Stefani Trikilis (Hellenic)

A defensive midfielder who is an absolute anchor in a Hellenic team stacked with talent.

She balances the team with her play ensuring nothing goes past her in defence.

QUEENSLAND

Edge Hill United's junior Tully Heatley earlier in her career. Picture: Emily Barker.
Edge Hill United's junior Tully Heatley earlier in her career. Picture: Emily Barker.

Tully Heatley

Club/school: QAS, Kelvin Grove State College

Position: Midfielder

A Future Matildas select, Heatley is renowned for her silky skills, someone with great vision who is all the while hard working. She is a respectful young woman.

Jonti Fisher in full cry for her school Kelvin Grove State College.
Jonti Fisher in full cry for her school Kelvin Grove State College.

Jonti Fisher

Club/school: QAS, Kelvin Grove State College

Position: Winger or midfielder

The versatile Fisher is a focused youth player who is a part of the Future Matildas squad.

She is a great finisher and extremely hard working.

Shelby McMahon

Club/School” Gold Coast Knights, Southport SHS

Position: Centre, midfield

A Junior Matilda squad member and Australian under 17 select, McMahon is athletic, has speed and is technically very sound.

The Southport School's Shelby McMahon is a ripper.
The Southport School's Shelby McMahon is a ripper.

Charlie Gibson

Brisbane Roar

Position: central defender and fullback

The winner of the esteemed 2022 Sue Monteath Award for 2022 FQ Academy QAS Player of the Year, the Mt St Michael’s old girl made her debut for the Junior Matildas at the AFF U18 Women’s Championship in Indonesia.

Ella O’Grady

Club: QAS

Position: Attacker

A Future Matildas class of 2023 scholarship winner, the Wynnum Wolves FC junior is a terrific forward who has been named in the Queensland schoolgirls under 18 side.

Zara Kruger of the Roar. (Photo by Albert Perez/Getty Images)
Zara Kruger of the Roar. (Photo by Albert Perez/Getty Images)

Zara Kruger

Club, school: Lions FC, QAS, Scots College, Warwick

Position: Forward

Polished by Junior Matilda training camps, Kruger was awarded a scholarship for the initial Future Matildas class of 2023.

Chloe Parker

Club or school: Narangba Valley State High School

Position: Defender

The Sunshine Coast rising star has been selected in the CommBank Junior Matildas squad to compete at the 2024 AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers.

Margaret Barrett

Club: QAS, Western Pride

Position: Forward

The Junior Matildas player rose from the Western Pride after coming through QAS systems since the under 13s in 2018.

Shelby McMahon training – is she a future Matilda?
Shelby McMahon training – is she a future Matilda?

Daisy Brown

Club. school: Brisbane City/QAS

Position: Forward

A 2022 Junior Matildas AFF under 18 Women’s Championship team member, she was identified by QAS scouts as early as the under 13 age group and continues to go from strength to strength.

Isabella Hoyos

School: St Augustine’s College, Springfield Lakes

Position: Defender

A CommBank Junior Matildas squad invitee for 2024, the Australian under 17 Women’s Asian Cup representative is a white hot talent on the pitch – and highly respected off it.

QAS captain Ellen Gett attempts to stop a pass earlier in her career. Picture: Kevin Farmer
QAS captain Ellen Gett attempts to stop a pass earlier in her career. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Ellen Gett

Club: QAS

Position: Midfield, forward

A QAS captain and Young Matildas training camp member, Stuartholme School old girl Gett is a renowned leader who made it into the Brisbane Roar’s top squad.

Stella Campbell

Position: Goalkeeper

Campbell is a member of the CommBank Junior Matildas training toward the 2024 AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers and there is little wonder why.

The goalkeeper is dominant, and a game-saver.

Grace Kuilamu

School: QAS, Souths United, Brisbane State High School

Position: Forward

The young striker is a versatile attacking player who can also swing to win. She grew up playing against the boys and was first identified at a school carnival in Wide Bay in 2017.

Mackenzie Nielsen in action for Kelvin Grove State College.
Mackenzie Nielsen in action for Kelvin Grove State College.

MacKenzie Nielson

Club, school: QAS, Kelvin Grove State College alumni

There’s little wonder why Nielson is so good when she has been honing her skills at Kelvin Grove.

Nielsen has Junior Matilda experience, and is elite with a capital E.

Aleeah Daverne

Club: Brisbane Roar

Position: Midfielder

Originally from sporting rich Cairns, the fluent midfielder with a big motor has had her skills polished under the watchful QAS system, making the youth Matildas side.

Alyssa Borodin

Club, school: QAS

Position: Midfielder

Winner of the 2022 Football Queensland’s under 15 Players’ Player Award, Borodin is a member of the CommBank Junior Matildas training toward the U-17 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers.

Sarah Bonifant is a Lions FC and Futsal young gun.
Sarah Bonifant is a Lions FC and Futsal young gun.

Sarah Bonifant

Club: Lions FC

Bonifant is a 2023 Queensland Schoolgirls representative and a futsal gun who has a knack for scoring.

Sian Costigan

School: Ipswich Girls Grammar School

Costigan, a Year 12 student at Ipswich Girls’ Grammar School, is a Queensland Schoolgirl and Queensland state representative in the elite QAS pathway system.

Chelsea Fairbairn

Club: QAS, Capabala FC

After two years of impressive form for Capabala FC Fairbairn was invited to trial, then was later selected in the QAS program. She hasn’t slowed down as proven by her Queensland selection for last year’s NTC Challenge.

Parwana Azimi, Eliza Maidment and Skye Kov from Marsden SHS play QPL or NPL level. Picture, John Gass
Parwana Azimi, Eliza Maidment and Skye Kov from Marsden SHS play QPL or NPL level. Picture, John Gass

Steph Hallas

Club: Moreton Bay United

Position: Forward

The Queensland Schoolgirl is a Moreton Bay United forward who would have to be one of the best strikers going around in Brisbane.

Mia Bailey

Club: Brisbane Roar

Position: Goalkeeper

A Cairns local and JCU Strikers junior, Bailey made her NPL debut aged just 15 and her professional debut with the Brisbane Roar in 2021.

Lilly Simpson

School: Narangba Valley SHS

Position: Forward

Named the 2022 Football Queensland U14s Players’ Player Award recipient for the season, Simpson is brimming with talent.

Majellah Cedric

Club, school: Souths Utd; Marsden SHS

Position: Midfielder or Forward

A terrific athlete, Cedric has acceleration, technical skills and a high work ethic. She is a genuine goal scorer. Cedric makes her teammates better players.

Khelistar Kumitau

Club or school: Olympic FC; Marsden SHS

Position: Midfielder or Defender

Technically elite, she is two footed, quick, composed and renowned for being an unselfish player.

Holly Bonertz-Benn

Club, school: QAS, Kelvin Grove State College

Position: Midfielder

The QAS women's schoolgirl ace is a great finisher and composed passer who has a high football IQ.

Kate Bonertz-Benn

Club, school: QAS, Kelvin Grove State College

Position: Fullback

Hard working and super fit, Bonertz-Benn can run all day.

The 2023 Queensland schoolgirls selection has a great delivery into the box.

Daisey Bateman

Club: QAS Womens/Kelvin Grove State College

Position: Winger/fullback

Smart with great skills, Bateman is an elite finisher who is very respectful among her peers.

Xiana Ludwig

Club/school QAS, Kelvin Grove State College

Position: Midfielder

An admirer of Matildas star Mary Fowler, Ludwig is one of the younger members of our list.

The QAS under 14 select has a big motor.

Violet McKee earlier in her schooling at Kelvin Grove State College – Picture: Richard Walker
Violet McKee earlier in her schooling at Kelvin Grove State College – Picture: Richard Walker

Violet McKee

Club: QAS, Kelvin Grove State College

Position: Centre Back

Yet another from the Kelvin Grove State College Football Excellent program, McKee is calm in a crisis, strong with good vision. She is a respectful young woman among her teammates.

Hayley Campbell

Club, school: QAS under 15s, Kelvin Grove State College

Position: Centre Back

Campbell is a wonderful passer, a dream teammate of players given her ability to deliver the goods.

Issy Anderson

Club: Brisbane City under 23 women's

Position: Midfielder

Anderson is a great touch footballer with terrific vision. She also works hard on and off the pitch to improve herself.

Ashleigh Adamson

Club, school Palm Beach Currumbin SHS

Position: Attacking midfielder

The attacking midfielder that has the ability to unlock defences and score important goals.

She was recently named in the under 19 Queensland schoolgirls team.

Amali Kinsella (FQ QAS program)
Amali Kinsella (FQ QAS program)

Amali Kinsella

Club or school: QAS, Beerwah State High School

Position: Unknown

The QAS academy member attended last year’s Junior Matildas training camp which followed on from her Queensland Schoolgirls and Queensland Under 18s National Training Centre Girls side selection.

Chloe Murray

Club or School: Sunshine Coast Wanderers, Sunshine Beach State High School

Position: Unknown

At the age of 15 Murray had been selected to represent the Sunshine Coast women’s under 23s side in the NPL competition.

Matthew Flinders Anglican College student Rosie McMahon. Picture: Patrick Woods.
Matthew Flinders Anglican College student Rosie McMahon. Picture: Patrick Woods.

Rosie McMahon

Club or school: QAS, Matthew Flinders Anglican College

Position: Midfield

The young star has already donned the green and gold jersey for the junior U17 Matildas after top string performances for the QAS under 15 girls team in the NPL Women’s U23 competition.

Mia Green

Club or School: Brisbane City, Redcliffe State High School

Position: Midfield

The Redcliffe youngster has been on many coaches and club radars for a few years now as she continues to overcome whatever challenges are placed in front of her.

Kawana Waters State College product Amber Faherty. Photo: Patrick Woods.
Kawana Waters State College product Amber Faherty. Photo: Patrick Woods.

Amber Faherty

Club or School: QAS, Kawana Waters State College

Position: Midfield

A strong and demanding player in the centre midfield, Faherty has starred for Queensland at the Youth Nationals and in the futsal arena.

Sunshine Coast Fire senior women's player Abbie Lutton.
Sunshine Coast Fire senior women's player Abbie Lutton.

Abbie Lutton

Club or School: Sunshine Coast Fire, Kawana Waters State College

Position: Midfield

Lutton is another Sunshine Coast junior that is soaring in the junior divisions but has also stamped her feet in the senior divisions.

Lanni McDougall

Club: Brisbane Roar

Position: midfield

McDougall has soared ahead to play for the Brisbane Roar after impressing for her junior club Moreton Bay United.

Molly McLennan

Club: Gold Coast United

Position: Centre midfield

With lovely deft touches, the former Queensland Opens Schoolgirls Team selection can unlock defences.

Sierra McCaffrey is a Kelvin Grove State College product out of the Queensland Schools Premier League – Picture: Richard Walker
Sierra McCaffrey is a Kelvin Grove State College product out of the Queensland Schools Premier League – Picture: Richard Walker

Sierra McCaffrey

Club: QAS

Position: Centre back or mid

A Kelvin Grove State College product, she is a natural talent who, believe it or not, can nail outrageous goals from around halfway.

Maddison Teakle

Club: Lions

Position: Defender

A Harristown SHS product who has now left school, the 19-year-old year has been a Queensland representative throughout her junior days.

Maddison Teakle as a junior on the Downs. Picture: Nev Madsen.
Maddison Teakle as a junior on the Downs. Picture: Nev Madsen.

Hayley Campbell

Position: Centre Back

Club: QAS U15

Campbell is strong and calm on the ball and can pass like the best of them.

Issy Anderson

Position: Midfielder

Club: Brisbane City U23/Womens

She has a great touch, good vision, is a hard worker and most of all she is respectful.

Sonali Singh

School: BSHS

FQ Academy QAS

A Lions FC junior, Singh is an exciting talent who has made the Queensland Schoolgirls with schoolmate Ari Skeers.

Ashlee Parravicini for South West Queensland Thunder. Picture: Kevin Farmer
Ashlee Parravicini for South West Queensland Thunder. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Ari Skeers

Club: Lions FC

School: BSHS

The Queensland Schoolgirls representative who last month secured third place for Samoa with two goals in their playoff match against the Cook Islands at the Under 19s Women’s Championships.

Sara Solomon

Club: Camden Tigers FC

Solomon is a 2023 south coast Queensland Schoolgirls representative which includes players such as Sarah Bonifant and Violet McKee.

Anjelina Ujdur

Club: south coast Gold Coast United

Position: Attacking-midfield

The Queensland schoolgirls under 18s select who may not be a Matilda but she has every chance of being a New Zealand international.

Macey Eise and Sierra McCaffrey = both girls feature in our story.
Macey Eise and Sierra McCaffrey = both girls feature in our story.

Lauren Vaschina

Club: QAS

Like many others on this list, QAS member Vaschina was elected in Queensland’s NTC Challenge squad last year. She is also a talented equestrian athlete from the Downs.

Sarah Birchall

Club: QAS, BSHS

Birchall is an all-rounder sportswoman, now specialising in football. She has helped BSHS to two premierships with the Open team, and helped them to the state championship Bill Turner Cup title.

Sarah O’Donoghue

Club: Alemein Football Club

The Queensland schoolgirls under 18 team select who was named the QAS under 17 Players’ Player Award winner for 2022.

Gold Coast United winger Kira Richards-Bassett. Photo: Kyoko
Gold Coast United winger Kira Richards-Bassett. Photo: Kyoko

Kira Richards-Bassett

Club/school: Gold Coast United

Position: Wing

The 17-year-old midfielder is a scorer, exciting and brimming with potential.

She was of course the youngest player (15 years) to debut for the Gold Coast United Women’s team.

Tia Appoo in action as a junior
Tia Appoo in action as a junior

Tia Appoo

Club/school: Lions FC

Position: Forward

The Bundamba State Secondary College old girl who as a Year 11 made the Queensland School Sport under 19s football team. Now with the Lions FC, Appoo was indeed a Queensland shadow player at the NTC Challenge.

Kaitlin McCormack

Club: QAS

Position: Goal keeper

The QAS Academy member was selected in the U16s Queensland Maroon squad in 2022 for the National Youth Championships and later that year received the Goalkeepers award at FQ’s awards night.

Macey Edwards

Club: Lions FC

Position: Forward

The 18-year-old Lions FC forward who was once a Sunshine Coast Wanderer and budding Futsal talent where she represented Queensland in 2020.

She joined Lions FC teammate Zara Kruger in the Queensland team at this year’s U18s National Training Centre Challenge in Victoria.

Eloise Hopwood from the Sunshine Coast has been a Qld rep.
Eloise Hopwood from the Sunshine Coast has been a Qld rep.

Georgie Dean

Club: QAS

School: Stretton State College

Dean has long been a highlight reel footballer and the proof is in the pudding. That pudding would be her selection in the QAS program which came as early as 13.

Halle Nielsen

Club: QAS

A Darling Downs junior, Nielson is a high achiever within the QAS and last year was awarded the prestigious Standards and Behaviours Award winner for 2022 in the under 17 age group.

Darcy Heffernan

Club: QAS

The Gold Coast United junior is mixing it with the best of them within the QAS, and last year claimed the QAS Standards and Behaviours Award, a significant achievement given the quality of young Queensland footballers.

A South Toowoomba Hawks Lady Hawks strike from Charlotte Weinand is saved by Rockville Rovers goal keeper Kirsty Otoole. Picture: Kevin Farmer
A South Toowoomba Hawks Lady Hawks strike from Charlotte Weinand is saved by Rockville Rovers goal keeper Kirsty Otoole. Picture: Kevin Farmer

From the Darling Downs, aside from Zara Kruger and Maddison Teakle, comes:

Charlotte Weinand.

Age: 17

Position: Centre back.

The Thunder under-17s skipper leads through her action and words. Her ability to read the game combined with her ball distribution makes her an unstoppable force in the backline.

Ashlee Parravicini for South West Queensland Thunder. Picture: Kevin Farmer
Ashlee Parravicini for South West Queensland Thunder. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Charlie Botham

Age: 16

Position: Centre midfield, winger or striker.

Can and will get the job done anywhere on the field thanks to her great skillset. Her ability to read the game and know when to push forward in attack makes her a huge threat to opponents.

Ashlee Parravicini

Age: 17

Position: Centre back.

Ashlee has not only established herself as a top player in the Thunder senior women’s team, but she is no doubt one of the best centre back’s in the FQPL competition.

Macey Eiser

Age: 17

Position: right back or right wing

Macey’s tenacity in defence has earnt her a regular starting spot for the in the SWQ Thunder senior women’s team.

Sienna Williams in action for the South West Queensland Thunder. Picture: Annette’s Action Shots
Sienna Williams in action for the South West Queensland Thunder. Picture: Annette’s Action Shots

Sienna Williams

Age: 17

Position: Left back

A brilliant two-way player who will chase down her opposite number and then almost immediately turn back into attack and bomb down the left edge.Williams times her runs perfectly and patiently waits for her opportunity in attack before striking in the blink of an eye.

Hayley Campbell

Age: 15

Club: QAS (previously FNG FQA/Edge Hill Utd)

Position: Central Defender

Details: Currently in the QAS program in Brisbane.

She has always been a player that’s stood out from her days in junior football in Cairns.

Emily Carless

Age: 14

Club: Redlynch Strikers United FC

Position: Winger

Emily is a player with great speed and agility and has proven to be a great asset in her team.

Lila Falchetti

Age: 16

Club: QAS (previously FNG FQA/Edge Hill Utd)

Position: Central Midfielder

Details: A talented player who has left Cairns in the last few seasons to take up a position in the QAS program.

FNQ's Lila Falchetti.
FNQ's Lila Falchetti.

Tully Heatley

Age: 16

Club: QAS (previously FNG FQA/Edge Hill Utd)

Position: Attacking Midfield

Tully, the younger sister of former Brisbane and Melbourne City defender Winonah, is a player with a bright future in the game, and is also, in the QAS playing senior NPL football in Brisbane.

Edge Hill United’s Tully Heatley. Picture: Emily Barker.
Edge Hill United’s Tully Heatley. Picture: Emily Barker.

Technically gifted, the former Cairns State High School star is able to change the game with her brilliance.

Taryn Knight

Age: 16

Club: Edge Hill United

Position: Attacking Midfield

Details: Taryn, has great potential to succeed further in the game. A natural attacking player, she has a good eye for goal but has complimented this with work ethic.

Taryn Knight from Edge Hill Tigers trying to get through two MA Olympic defenders. Picture: Nuno Avendano
Taryn Knight from Edge Hill Tigers trying to get through two MA Olympic defenders. Picture: Nuno Avendano

Tanay Martin

Age: 15

Club: FNG FQA/Edge Hill Utd

Position: Central Defender

Details: Tanay, has always showed great ability and talent. Her natural athletic ability gives her a strong presence as a central defender.

Valentina Oberdan

Age: 15

Club: Leichardt FC

Position: Attacking Midfield

Athletic attacking player with plenty of speed. Compliments this with her goal scoring ability. Currently leading the gold boot race in the FQPL-FNG Womens competition.

Loraine Paguiligan

Age: 17

Club: Edge Hill United FC

Position: Central Midfield

Details: Composed and great distribution as a central defender and midfielder. Like a lot of talented youth players in the region, Loraine has been playing senior football for quite some sometime.

Edge Hill United's Loraine Paguiligan. Picture: Nuno Avendano
Edge Hill United's Loraine Paguiligan. Picture: Nuno Avendano

Payton Rose

Age: 13

Club: FNG FQA/Marlin Coast FC

Position: Central Midfield

Payton has been a standout performer all throughout junior age groups. It’s only a matter of time before we get to see her on the State Representative scene. Composed ballplayer from midfield.

Caydence Russell

Age: 14

Club: Redlynch Strikers United FC

Position: Attacking Midfield

Caydence is an explosive player going forward, with great foot skills and shows great strength and accuracy when striking the ball. Caydence has worked hard on her improving her kicking style and this has paid off this season.

Eliza Sailor-Tabuai

Age: 15

Club: Southside Comets FC

Position: Left Wing/Right Wing/Striker

Sailor-Tabuai was selected for the Australian Indigenous Koalas squad in early 2023. She has

also represented the U19 Peninsula team and the U16 FQ Academy TSP squad.

Eve Stuart

Age: 18

Club: Redlynch Strikers United FC

Position: Centre Back, Midfield

Eve made selection in the U19 Peninsula School Girls team, and recently competed at the OFC U19 World Cup with the Samoan National Squad where the team won bronze.

Eve Stuart represented Samoa earlier this year. Picture: Jake Garland
Eve Stuart represented Samoa earlier this year. Picture: Jake Garland

Leitu Wallwork

Age: 16

Club: Edge Hill United FC

Position: Central Midfield

Details: A composed player in the midfield with good passing range, play making ability and gives a lot for her team. A calm presence and hard worker.

Ashlee Parravicini

Age: 17

Club: SWQ Thunder

Position: Centre back.

Parravicini has not only established herself as a top player in the Thunder senior women's’ team, she is also one of the best centre backs in the FQPL competition.

Ameleah-Paige Miller

Age: 15

Club: Highfields

Despite being just 15 Miller has been a standout performer in the FQPL3 Darling Downs senior women's’ competition.

The talented left-footer loves to get in behind opposition defences and has found the back of the net 14 times this season.

Chloe O’Rourke

Age: 15

Club: Highfields

O’Rourke is a box-to-box midfielder who works tirelessly in the middle of the park to support her teammates.

In her first season of senior football, Corky, as she is more well known, has established a reputation as a midfielder who is cool and composed under pressure.

Chloe Green

Age: 16

Club: Highfields

A stunning combination of speed, ferociousness in defence and commitment.

In the blink of an eye ‘Greeny’ can shut down opposition raids and launch a brilliant counter-attack.

Honourable Highfields mentions

April Mammino (16): Darling Downs Schools and futsal rep, FQPL3 Women’s and U16/17 player.

Lucy Dyson (15): Darling Downs Schools and futsal rep, FQPL3 Women’s and U14/15 player

Sienna Schmaling (14): Darling Downs Schools rep and U14/15 player

Khloe Greentree and Stephanie Geary have been standout players for West Wanderers.
Khloe Greentree and Stephanie Geary have been standout players for West Wanderers.

Khloe Greentree

Age: 13

Club: West Wanderers

Patrolling the midfield, Greentree has featured in every game for the Wanderers U13A squad this season.

A standout player in a standout team Greentree is a star of the future.

Stephanie Geary

Age: 15

Club: West Wanderers

A talented all-rounder with great skills, determination and focus.

Geary’s biggest strength is her willingness to support her U14/15B teammates and work hard for her team.

Charlotte Weinand. Picture: Kevin Farmer
Charlotte Weinand. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Charlotte Weinand

Age: 17

Club: SWQ Thunder

Position: Centre back.

The Thunder under-17s skipper leads through her action and words. Her ability to read the game combined with her ball distribution makes her an unstoppable force in the backline.

Charlie Botham

Age: 16

Club: SWQ Thunder

Position: Centre midfield, winger or striker.

Can and will get the job done anywhere on the field thanks to her great skill set. Her ability to read the game and know when to push forward in attack makes her a huge threat to opponents.

Sienna Williams in action for the South West Queensland Thunder. Picture: Annette’s Action Shots
Sienna Williams in action for the South West Queensland Thunder. Picture: Annette’s Action Shots

Sienna Williams

Club: SWQ Thunder

Age: 17

Position: Left back

A brilliant two-way player who will chase down her opposite number and then almost immediately turn back into attack and bomb down the left edge.

Zara Kruger

Club: Lions FC, QAS, Scots College (Warwick)

Position: Forward

Polished by Junior Matilda training camps, Kruger was awarded a scholarship for the initial Future Matildas class of 2023.

Maddison Teakle

Club: Lions

Position: Defender

A Harristown SHS product who has now left school, the 19-year-old year has been a Queensland representative throughout her junior days.

Sienna Lockwood

Club: Rockville Rovers

Following in her older sister Madison’s footsteps, Sienna has shown a knack for finding the back of the net.

Sienna is in a rich vein of form this year scoring 19 goals in 21 games and has 44 goals from just 37 games for Rovers.

Madison Lockwood

Club: Rockville Rovers

Madison has had a quiet season by her standards but that is only because work commitments have limited her playing time.

The fleet-footed striker is still good for nearly a goal a game, scoring 11 in 12 matches this season, but it is a far cry from her last two seasons.

Willow Gaffney

Club: Whitsunday United

Position: Striker

Gaffney just turned 18 and is kicking goals – plenty of them – having scored 10 against Sarina in the women’s age bracket on the weekend. Is the topscorer in the league in the Whitsunday Coast Premier League and has played North Queensland Schools rep level.

Willow Gaffney.
Willow Gaffney.

Claire Larden

Club: Whitsunday United

Position: Defender

Larden’s an aggressive defender, even playing socially or against men. Has played North Queensland Schools rep level.

Claire Larden clearing the ball from defence
Claire Larden clearing the ball from defence

Alice Wheeler

Club: Whitsunday United

Position: Defender

Wheeler’s on the smaller side but takes no prisoners with her defence. Has played North Queensland Schools rep level.

Charlie Myers

Club: City Brothers

Position: Goalkeeper

City Brothers’ women’s keeper in the Whitsunday Coast FQPL. Has represented Queensland Country under-16s at the National Youth Championships in Coffs Harbour in 2022, is also apart of the Football Queensland Academy.

Tameeka Casey

Club: Sarina Saints

Position: Goalkeeper

Casey’s a bright young talent, making around 15-20 saves every game. The 17-year-old is quite athletic and puts her body on the line.

Kelsey Waldon

Club: Mackay Wanderers

Position: Midfield

The 15-year-old already has plenty of experience under her belt, having played for Wanderers since under 6’s. She’s also been playing women’s football since she was just 13.

Kelsey Waldon. Picture: Jessica Wilson Photography
Kelsey Waldon. Picture: Jessica Wilson Photography

Keira Falzon

Club: Mackay Wanderers

Position: Defender

Aged 17, Falzon’s also been playing women’s football for upwards of three seasons. Is a solid defender that reads the play well, while she also has a nice passing game and can play out from the back.

Abhijita Naidu

Club: Mackay Wanderers

Position: Defender

Played women’s football for the first time this season at just 14 years of age at premier level, which is a big step for a player her age. Is a part of the FQ Academy for the Whitsunday Coast region.

Abhijita Naidu. Picture: Jessica Wilson Photography
Abhijita Naidu. Picture: Jessica Wilson Photography

Addison Plath

Club: Mackay Wanderers

Position: Goalkeeper

The under-12s goalie was recently selected in the schoolgirls Capricornia team, testing her showstopping skills against some of Queensland’s best young talents.

Lily Treloar

Club: Mackay Wanderers

Position: Striker

Another under-12, Treloar joined her clubmate Plath lining up for the schoolgirls Capricornia team.

Rubie McNamara-Day

Club: Clermont Tigers

Position: Midfield/forward

A very skilled 13-year-old who could find herself playing as a midfielder or forward in the future.

Alyssa Lagman

Club: Clermont Tigers

Position: Defender/wing

Another very skilled player who’s dedicated, determined, and competitive. Is currently playing in a mixed team, but will shine once she gets the opportunity to play all girls. Turning 12 this year.

Charlise Werner

Club: Clermont Tigers

Position: Goalkeeper/defensive midfielder

The versatile Werner could be the next Mackenzie Arnold or the next Katrina Gorry in the eyes of her coach. She has great skill, good ability to strike the ball, and a great engine. Made the Capricornia trials.

Takoda Stephens

Club: Mackay Lions

Position: Midfielder

Takoda is an explosive right-winger who loves to run in behind the opposition’s defence using her pace and power. She was selected as a shadow for the Queensland U16 Country team last year.

Olivia Garnett

Club: Dolphins FC

Position: Forward

Olivia is an intelligent attacking player with an eye for goal. She is comfortable receiving with her back to goal, but really shines in/around the penalty area.

Lilliana Knight

Club: Whitsunday United/Dolphins FC

Position: Defender

Lilliana has taken enormous strides in her development this year in the Football Queensland Academy. . Lilliana is a committed defender who is very capable of covering the ground quickly to intercept, block and tackle.

Sarah Chilton

Club: Whitsunday United

Position: Midfielder/forward

Sarah is in her first season in the Football Queensland Academy and her work with the Football Queensland Academy has really accelerated her development this season.

Evie Saye

Club: Mackay Magpies

Position: Midfielder/forward

An under-10, Evie is currently in her 2nd year with the Football Queensland Academy. Evie has great potential.

Makayla Scales

Club: Capricorn Coast

Position: Centre back

At just 15, Scales is a natural athlete who excels on the football field. She is an incredible defender and her ability to dribble at pace and work past opposing players is something that sets her apart. She also has one of the biggest throw-ins in the women’s game.

Capricorn Coast's football young gun Makayla Scales. Photo: JMV Images
Capricorn Coast's football young gun Makayla Scales. Photo: JMV Images

Tegan Early

Club: Clinton

Position: Central defender

The 18-year old is in her second season with Clinton in the FQPL Central Coast women’s competition. Early is a central defender who has plenty of pace which always helps in the backline.

Bianca ‘BJ’ Petersen

Club: Bluebirds United:

Position: Goalkeeper

Transitioned into the women’s ranks after about 10 years as a Blueys junior. An exceptional utility player, Petersen was a competent keeper throughout her junior years but her on-field prowess has cemented her position in the midfield.

Charlotte Poyser

Club: Bluebirds United

Position: Midfield

The talented teen is relishing her debut season in the FQPL Central Coast women’s competition. Poyser is a vital part of the Bluebirds’ midfield, defending in front of the back line and connecting with the attack.

Bluebirds United midfielder Charlotte Poyser.
Bluebirds United midfielder Charlotte Poyser.

Jemima James

Club: Frenchville

Position: Defender

The 16-year-old is playing her first season in the FQPL Central Coast women’s competition. JJ, as she is affectionately known, plays in the back line as a sweeper or centre back.

Jessica White

Club: Frenchville

Position: Midfield

The 17-year-old midfielder has not taken a backward step in her debut season in the FQPL Central Coast women’s competition.

Layne Chapman

Age: 17

Club: Brothers FC FQPL

Position: Goalkeeper

Chapman is a talented goalkeeper who has played for Queensland and represented Australia with the Australian School Sport U18 Girls team earlier this year in Texas.

Lilly Hannay

Age: 16

Club: Warriors FC

Position: Wing back

A Premier League player for Warriors who has been playing senior football for a number of years, Hannay is off to Germany in November this year to go to the Borussia Dortmund Academy after she was selected while playing for the NQ schoolgirls – one of 10 players selected from Queensland.

Warriors Lilly Hannay. Picture: Evan Morgan
Warriors Lilly Hannay. Picture: Evan Morgan

Flora Wormi

Age: 16

Club team: Estates FC U17 youth girls

Position: Centre back or anywhere in the midfield

Playing her first year of competitive football this year, Wormi’s academy coach Emile Damey – a former international footballer who played for Liberia in 2016 – said she was a dedicated player who was always on time for training and pushing her teammates to show up.

Estates FC footballer Flora Wormi, 16. Picture: Supplied
Estates FC footballer Flora Wormi, 16. Picture: Supplied

Emme Fitton

Age: 15

Club: Warriors FC

Position: Wing, front three, attacking midfielder

Fitton made the NQ schoolgirls team in 2023 and played on a number of other school football teams.

A talented young player who is very quiet but always willing to learn and improve.

Tess Neary

Age: 11

Club: Estates FC

Position:

Tess has been playing football since she was three years of age and loves every part of the game. Her coach has lost count of how many goals she has scored.

Junior footballer Tess Neary. Picture: Supplied.
Junior footballer Tess Neary. Picture: Supplied.

Finnlay Clark

Age: 10

Club: Estates FC

Position: Midfielder

Finnlay (Finn), is an awesome young talent. This is her first year playing in her current Estates team and she has been a big part in their success.

Every day Finn and her family are out in Victoria Park practising, which is fantastic to see.

Tia O’Neill

Age: 15

Club: Warriors FC

Position: Defender

O’Neill has got a lot of grit and muscles up to any challenge.

She is an extremely strong defender and is very athletic, surprising no one when she was selected for the NQ schoolgirls team in 2023

Elise Papageorge

Age: 18

Club: Brothers FC FQPL

Position: Midfield

Papageorge is a valued member of Brothers that constantly gives her complete effort for the team. She said the support she gets from her family and friends is what pushes her to become better.

Elise Papageorge . Picture: Alix Sweeney
Elise Papageorge . Picture: Alix Sweeney

Alyssa Felix

Age: 12

Club: MA Olympic

Position: Centre midfield or left wing

Felix has shown a capability to play above her age and weight for a while now – she has played for the NQ under-12 Schoolgirls for the past three years and a part of the FQ Northern Academy since under-9s – but her latest step up into the youth girls league playing against 17-year-olds is perhaps most impressive.

Mia Wicks

Age: 10

Club / teams: Burdekin Football Club: Crusaders U10-12 Girls, FQ Academy U9-11 Girls, NQ Schoolgirls

Position: Defensive Midfielder

Mia is a competitive player blessed with speed. Her technical ability gives her an edge over opponents as she passes with accuracy and possesses a great first touch.

Burdekin FC footballer Mia Wicks, 10. Picture: Supplied.
Burdekin FC footballer Mia Wicks, 10. Picture: Supplied.

Darci Colls

Age: 10

Club / teams: Burdekin u10/11 Panthers (girls), Burdekin JDS u10, FQ Academy u12/13 Girls Northern, Burdekin Schoolgirls 10-12, North Queensland Schoolgirls 10-12

Position: Centre Midfield

Darci is one of only two girls who play in the Burdekin JDS team with the boys, holding their ground playing alongside and against the boys.

Burdekin FC footballer Darci Colls, 10. Picture: Supplied.
Burdekin FC footballer Darci Colls, 10. Picture: Supplied.

Tahlia Hedley

Age: 14

Club: MA Olympic FQPL

Position: Midfield

MA Olympic’s Junior Female Player of the Year 2022, Hedley has an extensive representative history with the NQ Schoolgirls and last year made the NYC QLD U16 team.

She’s a smart footballer that is already excelling playing against much older women and girls, and her passion for the game will take her far in the sport.

Lacey Benson

Age: 13

Club: MA Olympic

Position: Midfield

A member of the NQ Schoolgirls under-15 team, Benson’s skill and competitiveness has helped her club team and representative teams compete to the best of their ability locally and against teams from around the state and Brisbane.

MA Olympic footballer Lacey Benson. Picture: Supplied.
MA Olympic footballer Lacey Benson. Picture: Supplied.

Keira Trovato

Age: 13

Club: MA Olympic

Position: Right wing, midfield, anywhere

Trovato is a versatile player that could probably play anywhere on the field – maybe even goalkeeper – and still excel.

Sienna Lago

Age: 14

Club: Burdekin Panthers

Position: Midfield

Started playing in the Burdekin comp in under 5/6 and continued playing all ages and playing rep football for the Burdekin team from under-10s to present. She currently plays in the Townsville comp for the Burdekin panthers under-14 team.

MA Olympic footballer Keira Trovato. Picture: Supplied.
MA Olympic footballer Keira Trovato. Picture: Supplied.

Holli Mythen

Age: 13

Club: Brothers

Position: Centre fullback

Still just 13 and captaining Brothers’ 14-17 years fillies team, Mythen has already made the step up the playing reserve grade matches in the senior women’s competition.

She is always encouraging her teammates on and off the field and has lofty goals for her future.

Miley Widt

Age: 15

More Coverage

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Olympics bid to inspire W-League push for the North

Club: Brothers FC

Position: Midfield

A tenacious midfielder who is a part of the NQ school girls team, Widt is a committed teammate who plays a key part in any team she’s on.

Originally published as Australia’s next generation of Matildas soccer players

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Original URL: https://www.thechronicle.com.au/sport/football/matildas/australias-next-generation-of-matildas-soccer-players/news-story/0408ed6d7bc747a2778279df11a6e853