Northern NSW Football Technical Director Ryan Doidge believes NNSWF players will take full advantage of the Emerging Socceroos Championships to showcase their talent and use it as an important stepping stone toward future success.
Players from across the country are preparing to travel to Sydney where the 2026 Emerging Socceroos Championships will kick off on Sunday.
Doidge will attend the boys tournament to observe some of the region’s most talented players, while also supporting NNSWF coaches and contributing to player and coach development opportunities.
NNSWF will enter the Emerging Socceroos Championships on the back of a competitive 2025 campaign, with the under-16s finishing sixth and the under-15s coming 11th.
“I'm looking forward to what will be a challenging week for our boys groups,” Doidge said.
“Our preparation has been completed to a high standard with our identification spanning the whole northern NSW region through our numerous talent development programs.
“We are positive we have selected a group that represents our region and the level of talent we have in our boys space.
“The group including the coaching staff have worked hard in the lead up and we are confident we can go to the Emerging Socceroos Championships and give a good account of ourselves.”
The Emerging Socceroos Championships will be held at Valentine Sports Park, Sydney, from Sunday 19 April to Friday 24 April, with testing taking place Saturday 18 April.
All member federations will be represented at the tournament, with NNSWF entering under-15s and 16s boys team.
The Japan Football Association Academy under-15s team will participate in the Emerging Socceroos Championships for the first time. The side enters the competition following the successful participation of Malaysia in 2025.
JFA Academy will compete in the under-15s competition, allowing Australia’s best male talent the opportunity to test themselves against one of the region’s highest performers.
“I want to congratulate the players and the coaches on their selection to represent their state,” Doidge said.
“They should be proud of this selection and I challenge both groups to be brave in possession while being determined in defence.
“I wish them the best of luck in the week ahead.”
Follow all the action on NNSWF socials.