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YOUNG STARS GET THEIR FIRST TASTE OF ASIA
 Marconi’s
Under 14s players Melissa Caceres and Christina Palumbo took their
first steps towards achieving their long-term goal of playing for the
Matildas after being selected in the Australian side which recently
returned from Vietnam.
The pair took part in the Asian Football Confederation Under 14 Girls
Festival of Football held in Ho Chi Minh City, where they got their
first taste of international football.
The festival gave the young Australian girls an insight into future
competitions in Asia. For the talented teenagers it was also an
opportunity to experience a new culture and learn the differences both
on and off the field of footballing life in Asia.
“The festival is not about winning, it’s about developing players and
learning from the whole international travel experience.” Australian
Under 14 Girls Head Coach Jeff Hopkins said.
For Melissa, football has been part of her life for as long as she can
remember and is very much a family affair, with older brother Anthony
currently playing for Marconi’s Under 18s.
“Coming from a South American background she’s grown up with soccer,
it’s something she’s played ever since she could walk,” explains mum,
Nancy.
The Westfields Sports High student, up until last year was mixing it
with the boys, before linking with Marconi this season.
On
the other hand, Christina is now in her third year with the Bossley
Park club and with Melissa, the two midfielders have played a big part
in their side’s success this season.
Marconi’s 14s are yet to taste defeat this season and with the finals
just around the corner, are odds on to take out the title.
“The club has been very supportive and all our coaches have been
really helpful with their advice,” Christina said.
The talented pair were part of the NSW side that competed in the
National Junior Championships in April, before being chosen in the
Australian train-on squad, from which the final touring side to
Vietnam was finally selected.
The visit to Ho Chi Minh City was a real eye-opener for the local
girls who were forced to adjust to the steamy conditions.
“It was really hot,” Christina said.
“But overall it was a fantastic experience and we definitely learnt a
lot.”
The Australian U14s girls team lost only two matches during the
one-week festival which also featured presentations, performances and
dances.
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