Tameside’s outstanding girls’ team, Ashton Pumas, are used to playing in the bitter weather here in the UK. However, their recent opponents are used to slightly different conditions.

Football is a sport loved in all corners of the world, come rain, or shine it is a game that brings joy to so many.

It was exciting news for the local girls as they prepared to take on a touring team, Wanderers Australia.

It was an opportunity for them to not only immerse in another culture, but to also see the differences in play from girls across the world.

U14’s coach Laura Day said the opportunity arose last minute, and the team jumped at the chance to play.

“We were aware that there was a team coming over as Droylsden were in line to play them. They brought three age groups over which was very impressive.

“So, they had three teams, meaning one team didn’t have an opponent to play. The Manchester FA emailed us to ask if we could host and we hurried to organise this.

“It was last minute, but we managed to get a pitch and a team, all 18 of my girls went down and got involved, it was incredible.”

Despite being from opposite ends of the globe, both Ashton Pumas and Wanderers Australia share an immense love for football, a passion strong enough to unite them in unique ways.

“It’s a memory for them that will last forever. They all share the bond of football, and it was amazing to see our girls talking to the other team and learning from them,” Laura said.

Swapping sporting cultures and customs, both nations were able to learn an immense amount about the differences in sport at opposite ends of the world.

Both teams have learnt an incredible level of football, but it was the differences in the squads that stood out to Laura.

“When I was younger, we played a Canadian team, and we knew they were very fit and good at passing the ball. This was very apparent with the Australian team too.

“They were great at moving the ball and communicated well. They’re used to playing in the heat, where little movements of the ball will save them energy.

“Whereas we’re used to cold temperatures and therefore don’t mind running long. It’s interesting to see the differences in the two teams.”

This experience was fantastic for both squads, and great for Pumas as they continue to progress.

Their motivation levels did not falter over the festive season, and their dedication remained at an all-time high.

“We kept playing and training over Christmas. We had two Tuesday sessions off and didn’t play weekend matches, but some of my girls play for Mossley and they had a game on December 23.

“We were really lucky to be able to hold an indoor session at St Thomas More High School in Denton as headteacher Hugh Brophy offered his facilities to us.

“It was so nice of him to offer this, and it kept us going, which our team loved,” she said.

When Pumas returned to regular training in January, the girls were more than raring to go.

Their first game of 2023 saw them take a 5-0 victory, an achievement that Laura thinks is down to the dedication levels of the team throughout the festive season.

Storming through their league, they aim to perform the best they can and be in with a chance to win the league cup.

A new calendar year offers a multitude of opportunities to Ashton Pumas and Laura Day, who have already got some exciting plans.

“We’ve got a tournament planned in Blackpool, so that should be a great weekend away for team bonding.

“We also plan to work hard and progress, increasing our potential.

“But, for us we have a lot of things to look forward to that we don’t even know about yet. Last year so many opportunities crept up that we would never have dreamed of.

“Spontaneous plans are the best and you just never know what could be around the corner,” she said.

Recently, the U14 squad faced Ashton on Mersey, where the final score line read 4-3. Their incredible performance meant they now sit second in the league, an incredible achievement.

Ashton Pumas are looking for girls to join their Under 11 and Under 12 teams, both as players and goalkeepers. Training is held every Tuesday, with matches on Saturday.

Joining the club offers FA qualified coaching, a fun and safe environment and consistent training.

Any girls who are looking to step into football can do so by contacting Ashton Pumas on social media, or giving them a message on 07903 466789.

The beautiful game of football is forever improving, and now is an ideal time to join this magnificent sport.

Do you know an inspirational sporting woman in Tameside or Glossop?

Women in Sport is a weekly column which shares the incredible stories of ladies involved in sport across the area. We are always on the lookout for fresh stories to tell. To nominate someone for the column or get involved yourself, please email Katie on katie.catherall@questmedianetwork.co.uk. 

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