DONNING the green and gold colours of Australia has been a lifetime goal for Port Stephens touch football wizards Ali Mitchell and Ava Forster.
The dynamic duo will realise that dream when they make their international debuts for the Australian Emus at this week’s Asia Pacific Youth Touch Cup in Redcliffe, Queensland.
Mercurial link Ali from Shoal Bay will be a player to watch when she lines up for the Australia Girls 18s team in a seven match series against New Zealand and the Philippines.
She will follow in the footsteps of her mother Nicole Mitchell, who was a legendary link in her heyday with the Australian Emus.
A delighted Ali told News Of The Area that she was “excited and proud” to represent her country at the three-day tournament from 15-17 May.
“It is such an honour to play for Australia and I can’t wait for the series to start,” said the Year 12 Tomaree High School student.
“What makes it extra special is that I get an opportunity to wear the green and gold colours – just like my mum achieved and continue a family tradition” she said.
Talented middle Ava from Anna Bay, was named in the Australia Women’s 20s squad to play against the Kiwis, Samoa and the Philippines.
A gifted athlete, the elusive Forster earned selection after skilful performances on the representative touch football scene.
The international event presents an exciting opportunity for Australia’s young talent to display their skills, with a total of 71 debutants to don the Emus kit for their first international appearance in the Men’s, Women’s and Mixed 20s plus the Boys, Girls and Mixed 18s divisions.
Launched in 2023, the Asia Pacific Youth Touch Cup showcases the best emerging youth talent on the international stage with teams competing from across the South Pacific region.
Both Ali and Ava are Nelson Bay Neptunes junior products and will chalk up another touch football milestone when they represent NSW Under 20s in the women’s State of Origin Challenge against Queensland on June 28-29 at Coffs Harbour.
By Chris KARAS
