As the CommBank Matildas embark on their epic journey to FIFA Women’s World Cup glory, the next generation of Matildas will show their skills in Wollongong as part of the 2023 Football Australia National Youth Championships (Under 14 and 16 Girls).

Being held for the first time in Wollongong from 9th – 13th of October, the National Youth Championships are the flagship youth event in the Australian football calendar, with teams from Football Australia’s nine State and Territory Member Federations competing.

SMA is 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 will deliver strong economic benefits to the local economy, while footballers and their families experience some of NSW’s best regional sporting facilities.

The National Youth Championship was an important stepping-stone for most of the current CommBank Matildas and the Subway Socceroos. Taking place over 12 days in total, the Championships will be held at the home of Football NSW, Valentine Sports Park at Glenwood for the Under 15 and 16 Boys (2 – 6 October), and WIN Stadium plus John Crehan Park, in Wollongong for the Under 14 and 16 Girls.

Destination Wollongong General Manager, Mark Sleigh, said as a proud football region, Destination Wollongong was delighted to host the Youth National Championships. He said the event would deliver a strong economic boost to the city and provide fresh opportunities to show off the region’s great outdoors, the diverse range of hospitality options and a stunning stadium by the ocean.

Talk to Jason Sleeman about significant event placement opportunities like this. Call 0401 359 537.

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.