Griffith’s eleven NSW Country squad representatives at training. Photo: Oliver Jacques.
A record contingent of 11 junior Griffith footballers have been selected for NSW Country squads to play in the 2022 National Youth Championship in Coffs Harbour in September.
Nicholas Codemo, Isaiah Dal Broi, Christian Dall’Est, Kobe Ellis, Isaiah Emery, Jack Jones and William Lancaster made the NSW Country U14 boys team, while Natasha Stradiotto, Phillippa Delgado and Gisella Pangallo made the NSW Country U14 girls squad.
The only Griffith representative in the NSW Country U15 squad is Ali Ali Zada, an Afghan refugee whose father fled war and survived three years in an Indonesian prison before flying Ali and the rest of his family to Griffith.
“I’m thankful for my Dad … my goal is to become a professional footballer, my idol is Lionel Messi,” Ali said.
“If soccer doesn’t work out I’d like to become an engineer.”
Ali Ali Zada dreams of being the next Messi. Photo: Oliver Jacques.
Daniel Febo, Griffith Football rep program manager, said he’d never met a more well-mannered individual than Ali.
“He even makes the beds when we stay at hotels,” he said.
“I’m really proud of the whole squad. Sometimes we might get eight or nine representatives, but we’ve never got eleven before.”
All eleven footballers have been playing at the top level for most of the season as part of the Griffith FC set-up, which includes the National Premier League and Griffith and District Football Association Academy Program. They also partake in the Talent Support Program coordinated by Football Australia to identify young talented footballers. Some played for Hanwood FC when younger, while Phillipa Delgado remains with that club.
Wing speedster Natasha Stradiotto, who will make her representative debut after being denied by COVID-19 last year, thanked her dad Angelo for her success.
“Dad always takes me out training and has supported me all the way,” she said.
“My dream is to play for the Matildas or Sydney FC. But if not I’d like to become a PE teacher or a vet.”
Pip, Gisella and Natasha at training. Photo: Oliver Jacques.
Centre back Isaiah Emery, known for his speed, physicality and a sharp tongue that sometimes gets him in trouble, also dreams of playing for Sydney FC.
“I want to get scouted by a good team and make my family proud,” he said.
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In a joint statement, Jamie Monteith, Griffith and District Football Association and Mr Febo said: “It’s a fantastic achievement for these players to have their hard work and abilities recognised. We are extremely proud to have 11 players represent NSW Country from Griffith, to have so many selected showcases the talent of players we have in our area. Well done to all, we are looking forward to watching you continually grow and develop. Enjoy the journey and good luck.”
Griffith and District Football Association President Paul Crowe said: “These boys and girls are the future of football in Griffith, and we wish them all the best for the upcoming championships, congratulations to all and the best of luck.”
Teams from all states and territories will compete for the title of national champion between 19 and 30 September 2022 in matches played at C.ex Coffs International Stadium. It will also be a chance to impress selectors of junior national representative teams.
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