Australia's next generation of sporting stars has shone on the international stage, with the national Under-19 women's floorball team booking their ticket to the world championships following a stellar performance on home soil.
Mandurah Hosts High-Stakes Qualifier
The crucial qualifying tournament unfolded last week at the Mandurah Aquatic and Recreation Centre, hosted by Floorball Australia and Floorball WA. The event saw the young Australian squad battle it out against rivals from Japan, Singapore, and New Zealand for a coveted place at the World Floorball Championships in Italy this May.
In a display of skill and determination, the Australian team finished at the top of their group, securing their qualification with two wins and a tie. Their success means they will join fellow qualifiers Japan and Singapore at the global tournament in Europe.
A Home Ground Advantage and a Sport on the Rise
Floorball Australia's executive director, Steve King, hailed the decision to host the event in Mandurah as a major win for both the national team and the sport's profile. "Being able to host an international event in Mandurah is a significant step forward," Mr King said, emphasising that it shows aspiring players the high-level opportunities available within the sport.
He praised the overwhelming local support from sponsors, the City of Mandurah, and fans who packed the stands over the three-day competition. "To look around the venue and see fans in the stands during every game... was incredible," he added.
Mandurah Mayor Amber Kearns said the city was proud to support the event through its external events sponsorship program, which aims to bring diverse and exciting activities to the community. "It was great to host the floorball qualifiers... and welcome competitors from around the globe to our beautiful city," Mayor Kearns stated.
Coach Praises Talent and Team Spirit
Australian head coach Hanna Adahl, a 28-year-old with over two decades of experience in the sport born in floorball-mad Sweden, said the event was a perfect platform. "It's exciting to be able to showcase our national talent and give players the opportunity to see that this sport can put them on an international stage," Adahl remarked.
She noted the palpable boost the home crowd gave her players during pivotal moments and expressed immense pride in their performance and sportsmanship. Adahl is optimistic about floorball's future in Australia, pointing to strong emerging talent. "We're definitely on the cusp of this sport becoming more mainstream and seeing it as a primary sport," she said.
Established in Australia in 1996, floorball is a fast-paced indoor sport often likened to hockey, played with lightweight plastic sticks and a hollow plastic ball. The game continues to grow substantially in popularity across the country.
