The Australasian Soccer Academy (ASA) is making waves in Thailand, showcasing an impressive level of football that has positioned them as one of the most successful touring teams in Southeast Asia. As they navigate their way through a series of challenging fixtures, the ASA squad is not just playing for victory; they are flying the flag for Australian football and setting new standards for youth development.
With a string of victories under their belt, the ASA full-time program remains undefeated. However, they are aware that tougher matches lie ahead. The conditions in Thailand are nothing short of brutal, with scorching heat testing the players’ endurance and resilience. The opposition, featuring some of the region’s most skilled footballers, presents a formidable challenge, but the ASA team is rising to the occasion.
Head coach Tony Basha has expressed his satisfaction with the players’ performance throughout the tour, noting significant growth in the academy’s overall strength. “We have a handful of 15-year-olds playing against 21-year-olds, and some teams are even fielding their first-team players against us. Despite this, we are holding our own,” Basha stated. He acknowledged that, at times, the intense heat can lead to sloppy play, admitting, “I wouldn’t wish these conditions on my worst nightmares.”
Several players have stood out during this tour, catching the attention of clubs in Thailand. Luka Strbac and Daniel Sawa have both delivered impressive performances, showcasing their potential. Young goalkeeper Terry Mavroudis, at just 15 years old, has demonstrated remarkable composure and skill, solidifying his position as a key player in the squad.
In addition to Mavroudis, Tommy Aarons and Xavier Dalpra have proven to be threats on the field, contributing to the team’s success. Basha remains optimistic about other players who have yet to find their rhythm, confident that as they continue to play more matches, their talents will shine through. Young Cooper Smith has also impressed, adding depth to the squad’s capabilities.
With aspirations to maintain their unbeaten streak, the ASA looks forward to upcoming matches before heading to Malaysia and Singapore. Basha emphasized that the primary purpose of this tour is to showcase the talent within the academy and assess their players’ levels against top-notch competition. He highlighted the exceptional quality of Thai footballers and the invaluable experience that this tour provides, which is hard to replicate back home.
As the tour progresses, the Australasian Soccer Academy continues to raise the bar, proving that with dedication, skill, and the right opportunities, the future of Australian football is indeed bright.
