Football West Youth Development Officer Gareth Naven says he was heartened by the huge turnout for this week’s State Boys trials in Perth.
Over 350 youngsters, some of whom travelled 1,500km, tried out across three days for selection for the State Boys U14 and U15 teams, which are sponsored by mining giant Gold Fields.
A two-stage preliminary trial was conducted on Monday and Wednesday at Gibbney Reserve in Maylands. Those who advanced were joined by players from previous State sides and the Hyundai Talent Support Program on Friday for the final stage of Phase One.
“It was fantastic to have such numbers, and the fact that some boys travelled from Karratha, Esperance, Kalgoorlie and other regional areas is an endorsement of the State team and how much people want to represent Western Australia,” Naven said.
“With COVID there will be no National Youth Championships at Coffs Harbour this year but that hasn’t stopped the boys turning out in such force. We still feel it is important to recognise the best players in WA and we are planning to arrange some matches in Perth.”
Naven and his fellow coaches will now select players to advance to Phase Two, which is a train and trial program over three weeks. From there they will choose a squad of players for the WA State side.
In June, Football Federation Australia Joeys head coach Trevor Morgan said the trials offered great opportunities for talented youngsters in WA.
“The proposed Football West Talent ID tournament builds on the Elite Match concept, providing young players with more regular high level games,” he said.
“These activities are designed to challenge players, best against best, as well serve as Talent Identification opportunities. Of the 2019 Joeys squad at the FIFA U17 WC in Brazil, 19 players were identified at club level and their talent confirmed in Elite Matches.
“The standard of these matches are high, with video and GPS data analysed by National Team staff.”
Gold Fields Unit Manager: Stakeholder Relations Eddie Sheppard attended the trials on Wednesday.
He said: “It is really encouraging to see the turnout at this year’s Boys State Team trials, even in the absence of the annual National Youth Championships.
“Recognising elite players will ensure that football in WA remains competitive and at a high standard. Gold Fields is proud to support state football in Western Australia through a partnership that continues to deliver a positive impact in our communities.”
Filed Under: Boys State Under 14 trail, Boys State Under 15 trail