The 17-year-old defied the odds to progress through to the NSWTA development squad for touch football. She is the first female player from the Macksville Falcons Association to be selected at this level.

Over the weekend, Claire, along with 27 other players, travelled to Penrith to trial for the NSW team set to play in the National Youth Championships in Caloundra.

The road to the development squad training session and selection was not an easy one.

“First I was picked in the Falcons team of 12 with training and carnivals for practice,” Claire told the Guardian. “Then we went to Port for the Junior State Cup in which hundreds of people participate in all age groups.”

After the State Cup, a team of 14 for the Northern Eagles was chosen – from a pool of players within the area between Tweed to Forster and out to Inverell – to go to the junior regional championships.

The 28 squad members were selected – from 84 players – based on their performances at the championships in Parkes. Claire was one of three from the North Coast to be selected to trial in Sydney.

However despite putting in a tremendous effort at Sunday’s training session, Claire just missed out on selection into the 15-woman side.

“I wasn’t getting my hopes up,” she said. “The coach said this year has been one of the toughest to choose from as the standard was a lot higher than in the past.

“I am shocked I made it that far – usually the squad is dominated by Sydney girls.

“It was good to be able to train in that environment and see the standard of play of the other girls. I felt I performed well and really enjoyed the experience.”

Claire’s love of sport, particularly touch, is evident whenever she talks about the game.

“It’s different, people think football is just a boys sport, but you have girls out there showing what they’re made of – it’s good.

“I love playing in a team and the thrill of scoring a try. I’m always learning new skills and moves and seeing them come together in a game.

“I have never thought of anything more than just playing – I play for the love of the game, and whatever happens, happens – and I’ll be proud of myself.”

Claire’s mum, Jane, said the coaches and association played a major role in Claire’s success.

“We need to thank the Falcons association and coaches for giving Claire the chance to play, and the opportunity to be able to be selected and teaching her so much – it all started from there,” she said.

Macksville Falcons president Dan Wassens said the association couldn’t be more proud of Claire and her achievement.

“Claire is the second Macksville player to progress from the Northern Eagles side to this level of competition, following in the footsteps of Jai Doolan from 2014 who made the top 17,” Dan told the Guardian.

“As was the case with Jai, Claire’s achievements are well deserved as she has continuously committed her self to playing touch, and all sports, and is always improving her game.

“As a dedicated player and association member, it’s a great reward for her hard work, and we can’t wait to see where she ends up in the future.”