Northern NSW Football has recorded brave performances against premier international teams at the 2022 SingaCup in Singapore.
Competing in an U14s tournament with a U13s squad, the boys have used the experience to grow as players and bring the football knowledge back to pitches across northern NSW.
Head of Mission, Pete Haynes speaks highly of the squad and believes the event will be foundational to their development as footballers and men.
“All players demonstrated excellent determination and enthusiasm while on tour. Our players were challenged and able to apply creativity and bravery to their matches whilst adapting to very difficult playing conditions.
The SingaCup standard was high level, physically aggressive with a range of playing styles and philosophies we don’t see in Australia. They will take a lot out of their time in Singapore,” said Haynes.
Results not reflective of the mission
Day 1 – NNSWF 0 v Sporting CP Singapore 2
Day 2 – NNSWF 0 v Farmel Isvill FA 8
NNSWF 1 (Goal – Alex Little) v Barcelona Academy Mumbai 0
Day 3 – NNSWF 1 (Goal – Ashton Baker) v Turf City FC Singapore 3
Participating in the SingaCup is more than on-pitch success according to Ryan Doidge, NNSWF’s Talented Player and Coach Development Manager.
“Taking our team to Singapore was an excellent chance for players to test themselves against different types of quality players. The boys broadened their football smarts, developed personally and will be able to bring the skills home,” Doidge said.
Chance of a lifetime
Off the pitch the squad bonded making lasting friendships by exploring Singapore, visiting Universal Studios and shopping for family in between training and recovery sessions.
Player Alex Little, who scored against Barcelona Academy Mumbai, relished the opportunity, saying, “It’s my first time in Singapore, to be able to come here to play football, meet people, and score a goal is amazing. We played good football at times and had fun off the field too. Thanks to all the boys, coaches and teams for the experience.”
What is the SingaCup and how other can get involved in 2023
SingaCup is an annual international youth football tournament, for boys and girls, held in Singapore.
The SingaCup seeks to showcase exciting football talent from Asia and beyond. Youth teams have the chance to test themselves in a competitive environment, impress the spectators and earn the opportunity to be identified for their talents.
Northern NSW Football’s SingaCup squads are selected through the Talent ID process. Talented players are coached and mentored to improve their football quality and depth in a high-performance local environment. Opportunities like the SingaCup further their development and improve football standards across our region.
Northern NSW Football will return to Singapore in 2023 with details to come throughout the 2023 Talented Support Program and Premier Youth League (PYL) seasons.
Stay tuned for an update on the Northern NSW Football girls results at the 2022 SingaCup.
