However while she is relatively new to this game, representing her country is old hat for this 16-year-old who spent ten years competing in trampoline, representing New Zealand multiple times including earning seventh-place in her age-group at the World Champs in Russia in 2009.
Her entry into the game came when a former coach found himself without a keeper and Roper’s background made her a perfect candidate.
Roper says her first taste of the game between the posts was a much more pleasant experience than she expected.
“I’d always thought it was a stupid sport, but it came naturally. I enjoy being the last line of defence for my team, putting my body on the line to make those cool saves. I’ve loved it ever since.”
Roper was playing U-17 football for Eastern Suburbs last season before being prompted by her Pakuranga College coach to try out for Fencibles United in the Lotto NRFL women’s premier league where she’s been working hard this season.
Her first taste of representative selection came in April when she was chosen to attend New Zealand Football’s National Talent Centre before being placed in the talent acceleration programme a month later, working with former Football Fern Pam Yates.
“She’s a short keeper too, so I can take on board so much of how she sees the game,” Roper says.
“People are often in disbelief I’ve come this far in less than three years. They know I don’t have much experience, but then they see me play.”
The Young Football Ferns lost their first match against Australia 2-1 but with two matches remaining they are still hoping to pull themselves back into the series. They play their second match of the series today.
For more on New Zealand Football visit www.nzfootball.co.nz

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