28/7/04
Australia’s Under 19 Women's Soccer Team, the Young Matildas, will travel to the South-West to prepare for their World Cup challenge.
Sport and Recreation Minister Bob Kucera today announced the Young Matildas would play in Bunbury on Saturday, October 2 against a Western Australian women’s State side.
Mr Kucera said it was made possible through a $24,000 grant from the State Government’s Country Sport Enrichment Scheme.
“The match is a major coup for the region as some of the best female soccer stars in Australia will be playing,” he said.
“The Young Matildas was the first team to confirm its place in the 12-team finals line-up for the World Cup in November, following host country Thailand.
“On show for the Young Matildas will be 16-year-old prodigy Sally Shipard who, along with Selin Kuralay and Kylie Ledbrook, is on the Australian Olympic team.
“The WA team will include our very own Lisa De Vanna and Tal Karp, who are also members of the Athens Olympic team.”
The Minister also said it was an opportunity to inspire local young women to play soccer.
“The State Government’s Country Sport Enrichment Scheme is designed to deliver major sporting events to WA’s regional areas, to entertain and to encourage participation,” he said.
“This is also a chance for everyone in the South-West to see how skilful and exciting women’s soccer can be.”
Minister's office: 9213 7000
