Australind Senior High School student Lara Graham, 13, feels right at home on the soccer field.
Lara began playing soccer in the backyard with her brother, back in 2016.
The 13-year-old played for the Australind Junior Soccer Club's mixed boys side, before being selected for the Under-16s Girls team.
Thanks to her amazing skills, generosity, and sportsmanship, she then qualified for the National Training Centre's Under-14 Girls squad.
She and her parents travel to and from Perth three times per week, for training sessions and matches.
Graham also trains with the South West Phoenix Firebirds on a semi-regular basis.
"She is one of the most talented players I have seen in the South-West throughout the past 20 years," Firebirds coach Stephen Suttie said.
She and several others from around the state travelled to Coffs Harbour for the National Youth Championships, last month.
The Gold Fields U14 State Girls side will compete in the Jinshan International Youth Football Championships in China, from August 21 to 26.
The players all received their official jerseys, earlier this week.
Graham said she was thankful for the opportunity.
"Playing for NTC has really been amazing," she said.
"I am really looking forward to the journey. I'm interested in learning about other cultures and playing against international teams.
"I want to go as far as possible. I would love to play for the Matildas and represent Australia in the World Cup."
Head to footballwest.com.au/ for more details about the tournament.
