Shelley, 16, and a student in Year 11 at Albany Senior High School, has been selected to represent Western Australia at the Football Australia National Youth Championships 2024. This event for youth football will see teams from all of Australia's states and territories competing for the national title.
"I have always loved playing football and the sport in general," Shelley said. "Getting into this team has always been such a big goal of mine and the next step in my football journey."
Shelley's journey to the national team began during the April school holidays when she attended the Football West trials with the Country Camp team. Her performance led to her being identified for the U16 training squad, which comprised 25 girls, predominantly from metropolitan areas, with only three representatives from the country.
"Shelley is a fantastically deserving soccer player." Her teacher, Mr McWhirter, said. "Shelley has been an enthusiastic member of all her Physical Education classes and sporting contexts covered." Mr McWhirter went on to say, "Shelley's bubbly and tenacious approach has clearly served her well, earning her a selection for the Football West state team. The entire Albany SHS community wishes her all the best in this competition and her future football endeavours".
Training sessions commenced weekly in Perth on Wednesday evenings, where head coaches conducted strategic training sessions to observe the players' performances. After attending six training sessions, Shelley was thrilled to find out she had successfully made the final team of 18 girls.
The National Youth Championships will take place in Melbourne at the Home of the Matildas at La Trobe University from July 3 to 8. "There will be many scouts from junior Matildas, A-League teams, and more," Shelley explained. "By attending this championship, I hope to get recognised by one of these scouts and go from there. Even if I don't get picked up, going to a big tournament and getting to experience football at such a high level is a great opportunity."
Shelley's selection is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and passion for football. Her inclusion in the team highlights her talent and determination to pursue her goals and reach new heights in her sporting career.
Albany Senior High School is immensely proud of Shelley and her achievement. Her participation in the National Youth Championships will inspire other young regional athletes to pursue their dreams with the same dedication and enthusiasm.
Albany Senior High School is immensely proud of Shelley and her achievement. Her participation in the National Youth Championships will inspire other young regional athletes to pursue their dreams with the same dedication and enthusiasm.
@ 2023 Albany Senior High School