After the CommBank Matildas embarked on the epic journey to FIFA Women’s World Cup glory, the next generation of Matildas showcased their skills in Wollongong as part of the 2023 Football Australia National Youth Championships (Under 14 and 16 Girls).
Held for the first time in Wollongong in October, 2023, the National Youth Championships were the flagship youth event in the Australian football calendar. Teams from Football Australia’s nine State and Territory Member Federations competed showing the depth of talent now being developed.

SMA was delighted to be involved in securing this event for Wollongong and supporting junior pathways so that these young athletes can, one day, represent their country.

The National Youth Championships delivered strong economic benefits to the local economy, while footballers and their families experienced some of NSW’s best regional sporting facilities.
The National Youth Championship was an important stepping-stone for most of the current CommBank Matildas squad and the Subway Socceroos. Taking place over 12 days in total, the Championships were held at the home of Football NSW, Valentine Sports Park at Glenwood for the Under 15 and 16 Boys and WIN Stadium plus John Crehan Park, in Wollongong for the Under 14 and 16 Girls.
Destination Wollongong General Manager, Mark Sleigh, said Wollongong was delighted to host the Youth National Championships. He said the event provided fresh opportunities to show off the region’s great outdoors and a stunning stadium by the ocean.

Photo Credit: Facebook. Inspiring a nation, the Matildas are competing now in the Women’s World Cup on home soil. The upcoming National Youth Championship is recognised as an integral part of Football Australia’s talent identification program.