Girls aspiring to play for the Matildas will benefit from a NSW Nationals in the state government-funded talent identification and youth development program over the next three years.
Deputy Premier and NSW Nationals Leader John Barilaro said an investment of $750,000 by the NSW Nationals in the state government will ensure players from Regional NSW have the opportunity to showcase their skills in the lead up to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.
“Regional NSW is home to some of the most talented athletes in the country and has a rich history of producing Matildas with more than half of the National team coming from our state’s regions over the past forty years,” Mr Barilaro said.
“This investment from the NSW Nationals in the state government will ensure the next generation of girls and young women in regional NSW have the same level of access to the best coaching and support as their peers in the city as they strive to represent Australia on the world stage.”
The funding will support the establishment of training hubs across the Southern Highlands and Tablelands, South Coast, Riverina, Western NSW and Northern NSW.
Focusing on girls aged between 12 to 18 years old, identified players will be supported through the provision of training camps and player support scholarships, with the added bonus of being tutored by current and former Matildas.
The NSW Nationals in the state government are committed to ensuring a lasting legacy from hosting FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 matches, and this investment will create successful pathways for aspiring girls in Regional NSW who dream of wearing the green and gold.
With current and former Matildas stars including Ellie Carpenter, Sally Shippard and Amy Chapman all growing up in regional NSW, this program will establish a pathway for aspiring Matildas in their local communities.
Football NSW Chief Executive Stuart Hodge said the government’s investment created a once-in-a-generation opportunity for aspiring female athletes.
The initiative will commence with talent identification and the creation of training hubs across the five regions.
