Their making history

MARIANNE Saliba MP, Member for Illawarra, is impressed with the increased numbers of girls playing soccer and congratulates all girls on their participation and achievements.

Illawarra Junior Soccer Association (IJSA) has an abundance of members throughout the region and I am very pleased to see that the membership of girls is thriving.

Each season of soccer produces great team results and one such performance is that of the Oak Flats Under 12s girls team.

This team has gone through the under 12s first division competition undefeated.

The team has scored over 70 goals for the year, leading the competition by 20 points. The team is preparing for the finals with just 9 goals scored against them for the season.

This all girls team is now eligible to enter the prestigious NSW Champion of Champions knockout only one other girls team in the history of Oak Flats Junior Soccer Club has reached this tournament, Ms Saliba said.

Coach Cos Scazzariello and Manager Ken Bruce have nurtured the girls throughout the season bringing out the best in all players whilst maintaining the fun aspect.

I congratulate this all girls team for their achievements to date and wish them well in upcoming competitions.

I also support the Illawarra Womens Football United Club and take this opportunity to congratulate the Illawarra Stingrays for their prestigious win of the Turf Girl Shield recently.

It is pleasing to see that there are a great number of young girls playing soccer keeping physical is the key to good health.

With plenty of talent coming through the ranks, soccer for women in the Illawarra will have a great future, Ms Saliba said.