It’s been a successful first six months for the Future Matildas program which has culminated in five young footballers named in the 18-woman squad for the Westfield Matildas’ two match tour of Europe.

Jada Mathyssen-Whyman (debut), Princess Ibini, Amy Sayer and Mary Fowler will join the Matildas for the games against France and England next month.

Experienced 18-year-old Ellie Carpenter, who took part in the Future Matildas program earlier in the year before joining the Portland Thorns in the USA, retains her position on the Matildas squad.

The Future Matildas program, which started with sessions in mid-March, was established to provide a tailored training environment for some of Australia’s most talented 15-20-year-old female footballers.

Currently nine Matildas use the program to supplement their training, participating in friendly matches or training sessions, an added benefit to the Future Matildas initiative.

The program is a collaboration between the NSW Institute of Sport, Football Federation Australia, Football NSW and the NSW Government. It enables players to train and play regularly with other high-level players and access specialised coaching and support from a range of staff, many of whom are also involved with Australia’s senior women’s national side.

Coach of the Westfield Matildas, Alen Stajcic, says the European tour is a chance for Australia’s emerging national team players with invaluable experience ahead of next year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup

“I am excited by the opportunity we have to develop the depth within our team during next month’s camp and am confident that this squad has the ability to challenge France in Saint-Etienne, and the Lionesses in London,” Stajcic said.

“With some established Matildas not available for selection, our October matches will give us a great opportunity to test other players in what will be a challenging environment.

“Our next camp will also give the players, as well as our staff, the opportunity to prepare for various situations and challenges that may arise during next year’s World Cup.

“October represents an important period for the Westfield Matildas as we continue our progress towards next year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup, as well as November’s home matches against Chile in Penrith and Newcastle,” he said.

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