Words: Staff Writer
Image: Getty Images

Brisbane Roar W-League Head Coach Belinda Wilson says the extended season afforded by PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland competition has greatly benefited the development of her players.

Angela Beard, Larissa Crummer, Sunny Franco and Brooke Goodrich have all been called up for the Westfield Young Matildas after combining for nearly 50 PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland appearances in 2014.

The quartet were part of a Roar squad comprised of established senior players and promising youngsters competing in the U15 Boys division and will now represent Australia at the AFC U-19 Women's Championship Qualifiers in November.

"The National Premier Leagues program allows our elite players to continue their development over 12 months a year as it bridges the gap between Westfield W-League seasons," Wilson said.

"It also allows our youth players to gain game time and competition experience to further their development."

While also key to ongoing match fitness, the extra time working with the squad means Wilson has been able smoothen the transition into senior football for her young players.

"Playing games is very important in helping players develop game awareness and to apply the technical and tactical skills learnt in training," she said.

"It's imperative players are involved in programs that enable their ongoing development."

The former FIFA Women's Football Instructor, who last season led Brisbane to a fifth Grand Final from six attempts, believes the extended season will continue producing players for the highest level.

"I expect more young Roar players to reach W-League and National Team levels in the future with the 12-month program meaning players are testing themselves against similar levels of physical and technical abilities," Wilson added.

The Young Matildas kick off their qualifying tournament against Hong Kong in Hanoi on 5 November, with the group winner to advance to next year's AFC U-19 Championships in China.