A record six Victorians have been named in the Commbank Pararoos Squad, as training camp commences ahead of the IFCPF World Cup in Spain. Football Victoria congratulates Joshua Beekes, Christian Bitsikas, Angus MacGregor, Sabian Panozzo, Christian Tsangas and Kaylan Van Heer on their selection.
With their first training camp of the year slated to commence on Friday, 1 March, the 24-player squad will delve into an intensive three-day training camp at Valentine Sports Park, Sydney.
Thirteen members of the squad possess two or fewer caps for the CommBank Pararoos, with ten players yet to make their debut, heralding the dawn of a new era for the CommBank Pararoos program. The average age of the squad is just 20-years-old, reflecting the composition of the rejuvenated side.
The larger than usual squad features eleven returning players from the 2023 IFCPF Asia-Oceania Men’s Championships (Para Asian Cup) in Melbourne where the CommBank Pararoos advanced to the final, creating an increased importance on claiming a place the team.
The CommBank Pararoos advanced to the final of 2023 IFCPF Asia-Oceania Men’s Championships in Melbourne, finishing runner up of the tournament.
Angus MacGregor (Football Victoria) will be back in action for the first time since 2019, adding depth and experience to the roster.
Additionally, newcomers Trey Hunter (Northern NSW Football), Sail Kozaroc (Football Queensland), and Sabian Panozzo (Football Victoria) will embark on their maiden CommBank Pararoos’ training camp with the aim of earning their first National Team call-up.
CommBank Pararoos’ Head Coach Kai Lammert expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming camp, emphasising the opportunity for younger players to step into leadership roles and contribute to the team's collective growth.
"This camp marks the beginning of an exciting journey towards the IFCPF World Cup in Spain. We're eager to see our players come together, forge bonds, and build on the success of recent years," Lammert said.
“The squad comprises a diverse mix of talents and we believe in nurturing the potential of every individual. By empowering our younger players to take on leadership responsibilities, we're building a culture of mentorship and growth within the team. It's about instilling confidence and resilience in our players, ensuring that each one feels valued and capable of contributing to our future success.
“This camp isn't just about preparing for a tournament, it's about embarking on an adventure together. I have no doubt that as we come together and push our limits, we'll not only improve as a squad but build an environment capable of producing great things,” concluded Lammert.
COMMBANK PARAROOS TRAINING CAMP SQUAD:
