Former Mount Gambier junior soccer star Ashlyn Cornolo has rounded out her first season of soccer since relocating to Adelaide to further her development.
The youngster, who formerly played for International in the Limestone Coast Football Association competition, was training three to four days per week, with games every Sunday.
Her FSA Under 14 team played fulltime in the Boys U13 JPL A League, comprising high intensity and challenging matches.
“This environment is however providing the best learning experience,” Ashlyn said.
Ashlyn’s team has three coaches who provide constant guidance, mentoring and feedback, enabling her to enhance her skills.
Since moving to Adelaide, the 13-year-old has had the opportunity to play in the FSA U15 team in which she performed well. She has also trained with the U13 FSA Boys on a few occasions which pushed her development.
“I am trying to take the opportunities in my stride and am enjoying the journey,” Ashlyn said.
“I have just been selected in the FSA U15 team for 2025.
“Training for FSA U15s starts at the end of this month, so it’s a quick turnaround.”
The youngster was a member of the FSA U14 side that competed in the Football Victoria ID Cup (Identification Cup) in Melbourne, played at the home of the Matildas over three days.
Ashlyn played six games in the tournament, taking on Football Victoria 1 and 2 and Football Tasmania.
The team won the tournament, with Ashlyn kicking a sensational goal in the first half.
“The goal against Tasmania was one of my best to date,” Ashlyn said.
“It was very opportunistic and gave our team a 3-0 lead.
“I have played as a fullback for most of 2024, so to get the opportunity in the forward line was great fun.”
At the end of November Ashlyn will be attending the FIFA, FA and FSA TDS Games, which are part of a FIFA and Football Australia (FA) Talent Identification Scheme.
“I’m really enjoying my time in Adelaide,” Ashlyn said.
“I was lucky enough to win the FSA U14 Coach’s Player of the Year Award for 2024 at our presentations last week.”
