Miniroos program hops into Toowoomba

Miniroos program helps introduce key football skills to young players.

KEEN KIDS Football Queensland Aldi Miniroos development officer Andy Allan leads young players through an exercise. Picture: Jason Gibbs

FOOTBALL: The search for Australia's next football star is under way and they could be found right here on the Darling Downs.

Football Queensland recently kicked off the south west Queensland leg of the new Aldi Miniroos program in an effort to introduce more kids to the game.

Toowoomba, Dalby and Stanthorpe are among the 27 Queensland locations participating in the program, according to South West Queensland regional development officer David Nugent.

"It's all about getting more kids involved in the sport,” Nugent said.

"It's about promoting the sport and letting them (parents and players) know what's out there for them in terms of junior programs.

Football Queensland female participation officer Kerry Hammersley participates in a fun exercise with junior players. Picture: Jason Gibbs

"The free program is a really good starting point that helps introduce potential players to the game.”

The program also serves as a way for young players to learn essential skills.

"The Miniroos program is all about developing the key core skills for players in the 3-6 year old age group,” Nugent said.

"Things like athleticism, balance and co-ordination at a young age so that hopefully when they join more structured soccer at six years of age they can build on the more individual skills needed in the game.”

Originally published as Miniroos program hops into Toowoomba