At 13 years old, Ashlynn Graham and Indianna Gilyatt are proving that passion, hard work, and footballing ambition, are the foundations of success. As teammates for 2026 in the Eschol Park U13 Girls Macarthur Youth League (MYL) team, the pair have enjoyed numerous seasons playing together at Eschol Park, and developing thanks to the hard work of the club and their coaches.
But what makes their story even more special is the pathway they’ve taken beyond club football, by participating in the Macarthur Talent Development Program (TDP) for the past year. In fact, they were a part of history as they were both selected into the inaugural Talent Development Program (TDP) back in Term 3 2025. Now, all their collective hard work between Eschol Park MYL and our Macarthur TDP has been rewarded as they move onto an exciting next chapter with selection into the Camden Tigers GYL for the 2027 season.
From football teammates to best friends off and on the field, Ashlynn and Indi have worked hard on their individual development. and through their footballing journey, they have met to become best friends. From a young age, both girls have shown their commitment to football and have enjoyed every step of the way.
Ashlynn: “I started playing 5 years ago for Oran Park Rovers then moved to Eschol Park FC to play for the last three seasons and I also play summer comp there also. I started playing on a whim as I wanted to play sport and I just decided to give it a go with my parents backing.”
Indi: “I started playing in 2018 in an U6 mixed team with the boys. Dad was involved on the committee and a longtime member of Eschol Park.”
Both girls have been positively supported by their parents, ensuring they can enjoy football and participate in both their Eschol Park commitments, as well as the Macarthur TDP together.
Ashlynn: “I met Indi 4 years ago when I started summer soccer as Eschol Park and then the following season for winter. We have been together the whole time for Eschol Park and the TDP program.”
Indi: “I first met ash at school and then summer comp. We have now been playing together at Eschol Park for 4 years”
For Indi and Ashlynn, their bond is unmatched. Not many players get to do what these two are achieving. They have developed alongside each other and now they’re achieving together.
Ashlynn: “I enjoyed football as its sense of freedom. I find when I play, I'm in my own world. It's become my passion and it makes me feel whole heartly happy when I play.”
Indi: “My favourite thing about football is being social and knocking people over!”
With their variety of enjoyments for the game, they’re a match made in football heaven. They have both learnt from each other and will continue to bring the energy through their next step with being selected into Camden Tigers FC Girls Youth League (representative football) for the 2027 season.
Ashlynn: “Extremely excited, I can't wait for the next chapter. I want to push and thrive. I can't wait to enjoy the next step in my football journey.”
Indi: “Extremely excited to face new challenges and new friends.”
Through their journey in the Macarthur TDP, it also meant they were both selected to participate in the inaugural Football NSW Association Championships which took place in Mudgee earlier thsi year. The tournament brought together the best grassroots players from all associations and regional centres around NSW to compete against each other.
Ashlynn: “Mudgee was exceptional. it was the highlight of the whole TDP program. An experience i will never forget. the opposition, my own team and the atmosphere were all amazing.”
Indi: “It was an exciting to go to Mudgee and to represent the team at the opening ceremony. We started off slow but as the team and I connected we started to some together and play great football. It was also good to get exposure to other coaching styles and got some great feedback on what I could do to push myself to the next level.”
With participation in the Macarthur TDP, alongside their Eschol Park club football commitments, it has no doubt helped them push their game to a whole new level. Ashlynn & Indianna have embraced every challenge, and their hard work is proof that when talent meets dedication, the results can be extraordinary.
Ashlynn: “Overall, I have gained the passion its inspired in me. It opened my eyes and shown me what i love and what i want to do for my future. Also, Mudgee Championship is also a highlight. An experience I can't compare to anything else. It truly was amazing.”
Asked about their favorite teams and players, both had exciting options:
Ashlynn: “Yes, I like the Arsenal Women's team and Sydney FC. My favourite players are Haley Raso, Ellie Carpenter and Mary Fowler.”
Indi: “Yes, the Matilda's. Favourite player Ibrahimovic.”
With a strong interest in the Matildas, we won’t be surprised if our super duo develops further, and who knows, maybe even one day represent their country together!
From playing grassroots football with Eschol Park FC, to participating in the Macarthur TDP, and now representing Camden Tigers FC GYL for the 2027 season, the girls have worked hard to achieve what many other players dream of. As trailblazers in the very first Macarthur TDP intake, Indianna and Ashlynn have not just developed their own abilities; they are setting the standard for future players who will follow in their footsteps.
We are incredibly proud of Ashlynn's and Indianna's progress throughout 2025/26 and look forward to seeing them continue to thrive in the years ahead. Their story serves as an inspiration to young footballers across the Macarthur region and a reminder that with belief and dedication, the possibilities are limitless.
To learn more about our Player Development Programs, visit our Player Development Programs page. Registrations for our Term 4 Programs are open now!
For further information or to get involved, please contact our Football Development Manager, Matt Rootsey, at programs@macarthurfootball.com.au.
