Geraldton gets head start on search for junior country week players, with registration for trials open now

Geraldton has begun looking for its next junior country week squads, with the Junior Soccer Association putting out calls for interested players to try out at the end of the month. Geraldton Junior Soccer Association has opened its expression of interest form and is calling for boys and girls from the under-11s to the under-17s age groups to try out. The trials run over two days, with the squads set to be finalised at the end of June. Under-11 and under-13 boys, and under 12 and under 14 girls are first up, with their trials on May 30 and June 6 at Geraldton Christian College. Under-15 boys and under-17 boys and girls take place on May 31 and June 7 at Rovers Soccer Club’s home ground, Alexander Park. This year, Geraldton is looking to send nine teams — six boys and three girls — down for the tournament and have so far received plenty of interest from eager players so far. GJSA country week co-ordinator Shelly Johnson said about 100 players had registered so far but she would love to see even more kids come along to trials. “Whether you’re aiming to make a team or just want to give the trials a go and see what it’s all about, everyone is welcome,” she said. “Country week is all about Geraldton kids getting out there, playing the game they love and representing their town with pride. “It’s a fun, high-energy week and a great experience both on and off the field.” Football West’s country week traditionally takes place during the first week of the September-October school holidays, with dates not yet finalised for this year’s tournament. Last year, eight junior teams were sent down to Perth to battle it out against some of regional WA’s top soccer juniors and have the opportunity to test themselves on a larger stage than their local competitions. The under-15 boys demonstrated how strong Geraldton’s local talent was during last year’s edition, having an exciting run to finish runners-up. To register, visit GSJA’s country week Facebook page or email gjsacountryweek@gmail.com.