Association secretary Liliana Novoa said sessions, on in Cobram in October and November, 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,’’ she said.
‘‘In 2019, we ran an under-11 girls 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 competition structure also means there would 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,’’ Novoa said.
This year, the association was fielding its first all-girls side at the Australian Football Skool Tournament in Shepparton this month.
‘‘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,’’ Novoa said.
The program is on at Cobram’s Apex Reserve on Fridays from 5 pm to 6 pm, from October 18 to November 22.
The program finishes with a gala day tournament late next month, with teams from Shepparton, Wangaratta and Myrtleford also expected to play.
The program is free for those registered to play soccer with a club this year, while there is a small insurance cost of $20 for players not registered.
For information, email cobramjsa@gmail.com or visit the Cobram Junior Soccer Association Facebook page.
