Kiama Junior Football Club (KJFC) talent Ava Sloan represented the NSW Country U16s team at the Emerging Matildas Championships in Sydney last week.

The six-day tournament showcased the next generation of football talent, with teams from all nine of Football Australia’s Member Federations competing, along with international guests from Malaysia.

Ava, who played for Kiama between the U6 and U9 age groups, was selected to represent NSW Country. While the team had a mixed tournament - winning two games and losing three - Ava said the experience was worth far more than the results.

“I found the week so much fun, and the experience was definitely worth it,” said Ava. 

“At first I didn’t know many people, so it was a bit harder, but I quickly got to know everyone - and they were all so nice.”

Despite a few close losses, NSW Country ended the tournament on a high note.

“Sadly, the results didn’t quite go our way, especially in matches we were definitely capable of winning. But we worked hard together and came out with a win against Victoria and WA in our last match - and we got to sing the Country team song!” she said.

“Before the tournament, I was really focused on results and being the best. That still matters, of course, but I’ve come to realise the experience itself is what’s most important.”

Ava admitted to feeling nervous before the big games, but said those nerves faded once she stepped onto the pitch.

Ava in action for NSW Country. Photo: Jackie Sloan

“Before the games I’d get really nervous - especially when we were up against a great team, or if I was playing in a position I wasn’t very comfortable with,” she said. 

“But as soon as each game started, all the nerves went away. Maybe it was because I had to focus on the game - or maybe it was just having my teammates there with me.”

Reflecting on her individual performance, Ava is both honest and humble.

NSW Country had a mixed tournament at the Emerging Matildas Championships. Photo: Jackie Sloan

“Overall, I feel like I had a pretty good tournament. I definitely had a mix of games - some where I made heaps of mistakes, and others where I was really happy with myself,” she said.

“But honestly, I don’t think I could’ve tried any harder - and that’s what really matters.”

Ava began playing football at the age of five, joining Kiama FC when there were no all-girls teams available - so she played alongside her twin brother.

“I honestly had so much fun during those early years at Kiama,” she said. “I think my love for the game started there, and it’s the reason I’m still playing today. I just had too much fun!”

Now playing U16s for the Illawarra Stingrays, Ava trains up to six times a week. Her mum, Jackie, says Ava’s passion and energy have always been part of who she is.

“She’s like the Energiser Bunny,” said Jackie. “She’s always had boundless energy and a strong internal drive to give everything her all.

“It’s not unusual for her to squeeze in a surf between school and training - and she still stays on top of her schoolwork despite all the hours spent training and travelling. Team sports really suit her. She’s a social person who thrives on the connections she builds with teammates and coaches.”

Despite her age, Ava shows a remarkable sense of perspective. When asked who her favourite player is, her answer reflects not only admiration but also inspiration.

“Of course I look up to the Aussie Matildas - especially Caitlin Foord and Ellie Carpenter - but one player I admire a lot is Pelé, the retired Brazilian star,” she said. 

“He shows that no matter where you come from, self-determination and hard work can take you anywhere. All you need is belief.”