Samantha Emms may only be 14, but she shows a maturity way beyond her years.
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She has just returned from Coffs Harbour after taking part in a 7 day Soccer Competition, hosted by Football NSW.
"We went to Sydney first for a three day camp, where we learned set plays and worked on team bonding." Samantha said.
"Then on the Sunday morning , at about 7am, we were boarded onto a bus and travelled up to Coffs Harbour. We were on the bus for about seven hours, it was a seriously long trip."
Samantha was selected to play in the Country NSW team in Pool B. They played against 5 teams, won 3 games and drew 1, making them the Pool B Champions.
"Our first game on the Monday morning, was against South Australia, and we won that game." Samantha said.
"In fact, we only conceded five goals across the tournament, the team did really well."
Samantha is now a possibility for an invitation to trial for Football Federation Australia Matilda's team, but she is realistic about her goals.
"My aim is to make the Development Squad, which is held at the National Training Centre in Canberra and run by the Goalkeeper/Coach of the Australian Women's team." Samantha said. "Six to eight players are chosen to attend once a week to train at the AIS."
Samantha said that if she isn't selected for this program, it is okay, she will just train harder for the next opportunity that comes her way.
"i am very proud of my achievements, but I know I wouldn't have gotten here without my coaches and my Mum and Dad." Samantha said. "They came to Coffs Harbour with us, but we were only allowed to see them for about 30 minutes a day, after our games, and then we were taken back to the resort for our physio sessions. The other team members were fantastic. We had a saying which was 'we are country, this is our family.'"
Samantha's big dream and goal is to have a career in professional soccer, and has set small goals along the way to get to her end goal.
"My current goal is set for the Winter program in Canberra, where I will get to train with the head coach of the Canberra United women's side." Samantha said. "The W League bridges the gap between where I am playing now (NPL Semi professional) and being at a professional level. It is aimed at finding the best players and working with them to that level."
"I have every intention of getting there, I believe in myself, and I am so lucky to have my coaches, Craig Phillis, who has worked with me on fitness and mindset and my Mum and Dad, who believe in me as well."