By Liam Emerton
Six Rockhampton soccer players and a local coach are about to tour Germany with the Joey’s Mini World Cup.
With a touring party comprising 55 players departing Brisbane on the 15 June, our six lucky local individuals will go on a 27 day tour.
Bianca Petersen, Jade Vycke, Shanele Boske, Jack England, Josh Kuss and Brent Selman will get the opportunity to be coached by and play against some of the best in the world.
The players will receive quality coaching and participate in a number of tournaments including against German football schools.
The players, who represent Bluebirds United, the Frenchville Roos and the Nerimbera Magpies, will all take part in a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Germany was chosen as the destination as they are a true powerhouse in world football having won four world cups and three European championships.
Local Coach Cal Lynch, who is accompanying the players, said it will be an immersive experience for all the players and himself.
“We will gain an insight into the culture of the German football system and the players will broaden their awareness from an educational perspective,” he said.
“This is a great chance for the players to show off their skills and develop as individuals in a wonderful leaning environment.
“I’m excited and I know the juniors can’t wait to get over there.”
The tour includes visits to Cottbus, Sielow, Leipzig, Dresden, Luckau, Duisburg, Braunshausen, Schmelz, Bardenbach and Verdun, in France.
The tour will also give the players a chance to do some kayak paddling in some very pristine areas along with visits to Checkpoint Charlie, the Brandenburg Gates, the German Football Museum, Olympic Stadium and Borussia Dortmund’s Stadium
The Joeys’ Mini World Cup returns to Inverell in NSW this year and will provide players and coaches with opportunities to not only tour Germany but for the first time tour Japan.
The tournament has been held in Inverell, Hervey Bay and Lismore in recent years and is securing interest throughout Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands as a-significant junior sport event.