Broome junior and youth floorball players shine on international stage at Singapore Open 2025

West Australian

4 days ago

Six young athletes from the Broome Floorball Club have returned home with heads held high after an impressive showing at the 2025 Singapore Open, held over the July school holidays.
Representing WA under various teams with the WA Exports these young athletes showcased grit and sportsmanship on the international stage.
The Under-13 boys' team, featuring Silas Harabe, Harrison Goodey, and Zac Moyle, dominated their division, winning all but one game. The trio along with their team demonstrated exceptional skill over the competition.
'My week in Singapore was the most enjoyable in my four years of playing floorball,' Harrison said
'The challenge helped me grow, I gained new skills, made great friends, and felt proud to be part of the team. I'm truly grateful for the entire experience.'
'I loved competing at the Singapore floorball comp. It was exciting, fast-paced, and helped me improve my skills,' Silas said.
'It was an awesome tournament and great to play against other amazing teams,' Zac said.
Arlia Pearce, representing Broome in the Under-13 girls' team, also played an important role in her team's undefeated streak — until the final match.
Despite the narrow loss, the team secured the runners-up title in their division.
'I loved being a part of Singapore Open as floorball is a deep passion of mine because it can be competitive, but it is always fun,' Arlia said.
Freddie Durant, played as an Under-15 boys' goalie and faced fierce competition but rose to the challenge.
In his very first game, he faced a penalty shot and his standout performance in one of the toughest matches earned him the MVP award, highlighting his defensive skills.
'The games were very fast paced, and I learned a lot,' Freddie said.
'We had good food, met nice people and had lots of fun.'
Zayla Hinde, a goalie for the Under-15 girls' team, played for a powerhouse squad that remained undefeated throughout the tournament.
Their flawless run culminated in a grand final victory of 3-2, earning them the championship trophy in their division.
Hinde's composure and agility in goal were instrumental in her team's success.
'I didn't know what to expect and was so impressed by how welcome my team made me feel and winning the grand final made me feel so proud to be part of the team, now I just want to train harder and play more,' Zayla said.
Coach Lexi Elliot led the Under-15 girls' team to victory with strategic game play and unwavering support and has shared her personal journey and philosophy as a coach:
'I've been fortunate to receive strong support in my floorball journey, including playing in Switzerland and qualifying for the 2025 Women's World Cup with the national team,' she said.
'My coaches taught me to love the game through tough times, and that joy is what I aim to share. I believe floorball should be fun—because when players enjoy it, they play their best.
'A positive environment encourages learning, confidence, and growth through challenges.'
Adding to the support system was Shannon Barnes, the Australian women's national goalie, who mentored both Durant and Hinde throughout the four-day competition.
Her guidance helped the young goalies develop mental resilience and sharpen their game skills which they will bring back and share with the Broome Floorball Club.
Additionally, Zayla will be training under a development program, positioning her as a future contender for the U19 national goalie spot at the World Floorball Championships in the coming years.
In June, Broome Floorball Inc. with support from the Shire of Broome and Floorball WA also hosted a training clinic led by national players Edward Rawlins, Hayley Crute and Shannon Barnes.
They shared their passion for the sport and insights on gameplay, umpiring, and coaching, helping 111 Broome Floorball Club members across all divisions sharpen their skills in a hugely successful weekend training clinic.
With Broome Floorball Inc. now the second biggest floorball club in WA and inspiring talent emerging at all levels, the club aims to run two clinics a year to meet demand and upskill their players.