By: Janakan SEEMAMPILLAI

THE future stars of women's football in the Geelong region were given a wonderful treat at CB Smith Reserve in Fawkner on Saturday 10 December thanks to leading Westfield W-League club Melbourne City FC.

The aspiring young soccer stars were provided the opportunity to be match day mascots for reigning champions Melbourne City in their W-League grand final replay against Canberra United at CB Smith Reserve in Fawkner.

The girls (plus 2 young boys) also had the chance to play on the field at halftime showing plenty of skill and determination, shining brighter than the golden sunshine that engulfed CB Smith Reserve showing they belonged on the big stage.

The girls ranged from a wide variety of clubs in the Geelong region and were left in awe seeing superstars such as Matilda Teigan Allen and American international Erika Tymrak in action.

A few girls that participated have never played soccer before but we are confident they will now be asking Santa for a pair of boots and shin pads this Christmas.

In a high quality game between the top two ladies teams in the country, Melbourne City lost for the first time in their short history going down 2-1 to the team from the nationals capital in front of a packed house. The girls were left inspired and will no doubt be eager to kick the roundball around during the summer holidays.

A big thanks to Travis Davidson and Melissa Missailidis from Melbourne City's fan engagement for providing the girls with this opportunity of a lifetime.

To strengthen their connection with the Geelong region, Melbourne City are running a beach soccer tournament on the weekend of 14/15 January, 2017 at Eastern Beach.

This competition is open for juniors and seniors and will run from 9-1 each day. Women and kids Under 10 will have their comp on the Saturday and kids aged 11 and higher and senior men are on the Sunday."