The CommBank Paramatildas, Australia’s inspirational women’s para football team, have achieved an extraordinary milestone, claiming their first-ever World Cup title at the 2024 IFCPF Women’s World Cup in Spain. With a commanding 6-2 victory over the USA, the team also retained their position as the world’s top-ranked side.
At the heart of this historic win was Katelyn Smith, captain, goalkeeper, and a dedicated community coach at Football Futures Foundation. Katelyn’s remarkable contributions—both as a leader and a player—were pivotal to the team’s success. Her outstanding performance included a hat-trick and crucial saves, showcasing her exceptional skills and determination. Her ability to rise after missing a penalty earlier in the match and deliver a decisive performance exemplifies her resilience and focus.
Reflecting on the triumph, Head Coach Kelly Stirton said “It’s exhilarating. We’ve worked so hard for this moment. The heartbreak of losing two years ago drove us to dig deep and grow as a team.”
The match wasn’t without challenges. The CommBank Paramatildas trailed 2-0 early on, but Katelyn’s first goal just before halftime reignited their hopes. A missed penalty could have dampened spirits, but instead, it fueled her resolve. She scored two more goals in the second half, securing her hat-trick and setting the stage for a dominant finish, with Annmarie de Uriarte and Georgia Beikoff adding three additional goals.
Katelyn’s achievements extend beyond the pitch. As a coach at Football Futures Foundation, she inspires young players, demonstrating how football can be a platform for resilience, inclusion, and success. Her leadership and dedication serve as a beacon for aspiring athletes and the community alike.
The CommBank Paramatildas’ journey reflects the power of perseverance and teamwork. With two years of preparation and determination following their previous World Cup heartbreak, they now stand as champions and trailblazers for para football in Australia. Football Futures Foundation is proud to celebrate the Commbank Paramatildas and Katelyn’s role in this extraordinary success, both as an athlete and a community leader.
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