Another PS4 National Premier League WA season kicks off this weekend as Perth Glory’s youngsters make the trip to Alfred Skeet Reserve on Saturday night to take on Armadale in the opening round.
It’s a new look squad for the 2017 season, with youngster Daniel Stynes appointed captain by head coach John Gibson.
The 18-year old only finished high school three months ago and this year been given the role and responsibility to marshall the troops against grown men and former professionals.
“It’ll be my first year at Murdoch University studying law, so it’s going to be a hard adjustment juggling football with studies, it’s a big challenge but one I’m looking forward too,” he said.
“I was quite surprised on the appointment to be fair, I’ve only just turned 18 at the back end of last year, but really excited to lead the boys out and carry a little bit of responsibility since I’ve been in the first team NPL set up for the past two years.
“This season we have a younger team but we’re looking to carry on from a great NYL (National Youth League Season) where we were a game away from winning the league.”
Gibson said he expected Stynes to develop into a great leader.
“Stynsey is improving nicely as a footballer and maturing as a young man – so the added responsibility of leading the group won’t be a problem,” he said.
“A majority of the squad has come through our PGFC Elite Pathway, and it’s pretty cool for the clubs underpinning development programs with Jack Leech, Stef King, Walter Scott and Callum Timmins all named in the Young Socceroos training camp last month.
“A number of the squad has been exposed to senior football and many will be provided with opportunities to play senior football this year – it will be another cracking challenge.”
Match Details
PS4National Premier League WA
Saturday February 18
Week 1 – Armadale v Perth Glory
Alfred Skeet Reserve (7.00pm)
