Words: Michael Flynn

Places are up for grabs in FNQ Heat’s PlayStation® 4 NPL Queensland 2016 squad after the club commenced trials earlier this week.

The trial process is offering recently appointed coach Tim Campbell the opportunity to run the rule over a number of returning players and aspiring newcomers for next year’s campaign.

Amongst familiar names returning for the trial process include Jamie Gosling, Cameron Nucifora , Kevin Ward and Cameron Morris.

Also attending is Josh Pin, who was confirmed by Heat as a re-signing in August and is using the trials format to commence his pre-season.

Campbell said he was excited by the number of players looking to impress and earn a spot in PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland 2016.

“We had about 28 turn up on Monday night, of which about 12 were from last year’s squad. We’ve got some players who were in last year’s Under 18’s sign and a few weren’t previously attached to the club,” Campbell explained.

“There were a few fresh faces there that were pretty impressive and some of the Under 18’s as well will be pushing for places, that’s for sure.”

He added that every player had to prove themselves over the next month to be considered for the team which has twice qualified for the Westfield FFA Cup Round of 32.

“The loyal players who have stayed with us are highly considered but the trial is a trial and all players will have to do well at the trial to make the squad.”

Campbell said he will continue the Heat’s reputation as a forthright opponent in his first season as head coach and stressed the club remains a pathway for the far north’s local talent.

“We want to try and produce a team that can attack. We’re looking for lots of enthusiasm and lots of energy.”

“With the geographic challenges that we have up here we will be looking to produce exciting young players and giving them every opportunity to progress,” he concluded.

The trials will continue until early December, with squad announcements expected to follow.