Cobram Junior Soccer Association Secretary, Liliana Novoa explained that the sessions would be run by Football Victoria’s Club Ambassador, Atila Kerestes with the support of local coaches, with a focus on skill development, game play and fun.
“Cobram Junior Soccer Association currently runs the only Miniroos-type winter competition for junior girls in the Goulburn North East region of Victoria,” said Ms Novoa.
“In 2019 we ran an Under 11 girl’s competition which was really well supported by teams from Cobram, Yarrawonga and Finley.
“Next year, we hope to grow this by introducing a new Under 9 girls’ competition alongside an Under 12 competition, so that girls can play in the age group best suited to them.”
The proposed new girls’ competition structure also means there will be greater opportunities to join a team next year.
“Through the Regional Girls Development Program, girls who haven’t played soccer before can develop their skills and understanding of the game, while more experienced players can use the opportunity to progress their skills during the off-season,” she said.
This year, the Cobram Junior Soccer Association will also field its first all-girl’s side at the Australian Football Skool Tournament being held in Shepparton during October.
“Our competition has helped develop some excellent players and we are very excited to be able to give the girls a chance to play at a higher level against teams from across the state,” said Ms Novoa.
The Regional Girls Development Program will be held at Cobram’s Apex Reserve from 5-6pm on Friday evenings from October 18 to November 22.
The program will conclude with a Gala Day tournament during late November with teams from Shepparton, Wangaratta and Myrtleford also expected to participate.
The program is free for those players that were registered to play soccer with a club in 2019, while there is a small insurance cost of $20 for players who are not currently registered.
For more information please contact Liliana Novoa on 0419 887 542, Michelle Pardy on 0428 734 795 or email cobramjsa@gmail.com or visit the Cobram Junior Soccer Association Facebook page.