Players with the RH3 Football Academy touring squad have enjoyed the experience of a full training session at the Melbourne Victory Academy.

Coaches from the academy, led by Football Pathways Manager Gareth Turnbull, ran a three-hour session for 45 Victory and RH3 players.

The session was all part of the tour by 21 members of the U-19 women’s squad who play academy teams from women’s A-League clubs Melbourne Victory, Western United and Melbourne City.

The touring party, coached by Scott Bult, includes players from Hamilton, Auckland and Rotorua.

Of the Victory session, Millee Loxton (16) said:

“Training with Melbourne Victory was an unforgettable experience and something I will take with in my footballing journey.

“It was so cool to see where and how pro clubs train, and the pathways youth players in Australia are on.

“Such an amazing opportunity to play alongside and learn off excellent players and professional coaches.”

Zoe Brazier (16) said: “Walking into the Maribyrnong Sports Academy, I was blown away by all the amazing facilities.

“Everything was in peak condition and looked very professional. The coaches of the Melbourne Victory Academy
greeted each of us individually; this made me feel very welcomed.

“The warm-ups and drills throughout the session were definitely a switch up from my usual routine, but it was great to experience and I really enjoyed it.

“To top the training off, the Melbourne Victory girls were fantastic to play alongside. Skilful, hardworking, and friendly.”

The training session was also a chance for RH3’s Nat Young to return to Melbourne Victory, where she spent a week of her July school holidays.

Young (15) said: “It’s great to be back at the Melbourne Victory Academy, training with these amazing coaches. Another great opportunity I’ve been given by the RH3 Academy.”