OHS footballer Paige Cross will compete at the OFC U16 World Cup qualifiers.

Onehunga High School footballer Paige Cross has had a strong season with the Girls’ 1st XI and is now preparing to represent Samoa at international level. Paige, who plays as a left winger or striker, began playing football when she was four or five and currently plays club football for Auckland United alongside representing OHS. The Girls’ 1st XI finished second in their league this season, earning the opportunity to play for promotion. Paige has enjoyed being part of the team and the progress they have made throughout the season. “The team put in a lot of work, and we finished second in our league. The goal is to go out there, get the win, and take that next step.”

Paige’s next opportunity will take her to the Solomon Islands after being selected for the Samoa U16 national squad. She will spend three weeks competing in the OFC U16 World Cup qualifiers, with Samoa set to face Tonga, New Caledonia and the Solomon Islands. “I’m looking forward to the opportunity to represent Samoa, get some solid playing time, and get a real feel for what it’s like to play at the national level.”

Her advice for younger footballers hoping to progress into the 1st XI or representative football is to back themselves and keep working. “Keep your confidence up. Put in 100% effort, keep trying, and make sure you’re actually enjoying the game while you do it.”

Congratulations to Paige on her selection, and all the best for the tournament.