Mainland Football believe they have pulled together the best 90 players across 5 grades to compete at December’s National Age Group Tournament in Wellington.

The event runs over 5 days (December 13th-17th 2017) and will see the countries 7 football federations pit their finest young talent against each other in front of New Zealand Football’s (NZF) technical staff. The age groups selected are, 14 Boys, 15 Boys, 16 Boys, 14 Girls and 16 Girls.

Selection for the Mainland teams took place over series of identification opportunities throughout the winter season, with the recent tournaments over the October school holidays providing the final opportunity for players to impress.

Mainland Football Development Officer, Gary Ogilvie will oversee the teams and says, “we looked for players with a high ceiling, and the potential to develop and progress to higher honours within NZF framework over the coming years.”

“As always Mainland Football is looking to be competitive and showcase the talent the federation has on offer and development that has taken place over the previous couple of years.”

In addition to the 5 teams, 10 support staff will also be given the chance to coach the squads. “These individuals, both men and women, are themselves on the NZF coaching pathway, so they have a chance to advance themselves while working with the region’s top aspiring talent.” adds Mr Ogilvie.

The 2017 Mainland Football National Age Group Squads are as follows :-

14th Grade Boys

15th Grade Boys

16th Grade Boys

14th Grade Girls

16th Grade Girls