Young Sunshine Coast striker Kirsty Clifford and midfielder Maisie Berry have topped off outstanding 2013 seasons with invitations to trial with the QAS High Performance Women’s Program.

The two former Under 14 Girls’ Fire players were among the youngest invited to trial last week.

Clifford captured the attention of QAS selectors after playing for the Under 15 Girls’ State Metro Team at the National Championships.

She also captained the Under 14 Girls’ Fire side to a second-place finish on the table, while her composure in front of goal allowed the sharp-shooter to bag 50 goals in the process.

“Training and playing with the State team and playing at Nationals were amazing experiences for me, especially as I was out of my age-group," said Clifford, who turned 14 this year.

"I have learnt so much, and have grown so much not just as a footballer but as a person.”

Kirsty has since been training with the Fire 2014 Under 17 Girls squad, a challenge which she has risen to with enthusiasm.

“The tempo is very different to what I am used to but it’s meant I’ve had to work hard from start to finish. I can already tell I’ve learned so much playing only a few weeks with older players,” she said.

Thirteen-year-old Maisie Berry also gained selector’s attention through the Under 13 Girls’ Metro State Squad.

Fire Technical Director Kevin A’herne-Evans said Berry’s excellent passing game and a keen ability in tight areas made her a strong candidate for QAS selection in spite of her youth.

“I rate Maisie’s ability very highly,” A’herne-Evans said, “she links up well with other midfielders and strikers; she’s also excellent at bringing wingers into the game and has a keen eye for goal.”

Berry and Clifford started training with the QAS last week along with Fire 2014 Under 17 squad members Cortnee Vine, Gemma Hauck, and Grace Chalmers.

The girls will continue training with the QAS for four days this week.

 

Words & Image: Sunshine Coast FC Fire