Mass group of players, friends and families with the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 Original Trophy – photo supplied.

Jamison Park in Penrith was the scene for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 Original Trophy Tour, with hundreds of families (including an armada of children) to meet with former local and now Australian Matilda Bryleeh Henry, obtain her autograph and have their photo taken with Bryleeh and the Women’s World Cup trophy.

Member for Penrith Karen McKeown said “Penrith has a proud history of producing some of the greatest players to ever wear the Matildas jersey, including Bryleeh Henry (Werrington Downs) and Teigan Allen.

“The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 will see the world’s best players compete for the greatest prize in women’s football, from 20th July to 20th August.

“Some of the world’s best athletes, most passionate sports fans, leading officials, generous volunteers and global media will come together to make history.

“Penrith football fans will get to celebrate the highs, the lows, the thrills and excitement right here on home shores.

“The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 will inspire more Penrith girls to pull on the Matildas jersey and represent our nation on the world stage.

“Today’s Trophy Tour visit to Penrith gives local football fans the chance to share in the excitement of the build up to the greatest women’s sporting event on the planet.

“I urge anyone who has not yet purchased their tickets to a game to do so.”

“There were approximately 90 teams and 750 players across the NFA and Lithgow Associations in attendance at Jamison Park,” said Josiah Wilson – Media, Marketing and Sponsorship Manager, NHA.

“The 2019 Women’s World Cup in France had 1.2m spectators averaging 22k fans/match in the stadium. Women’s football has exploded globally since then and would expect that number to be significantly higher this time around.”

Footnote: Bryleeh Henry has been in the Australian Junior Matildas program since Under 16’s and is now a member of the Matildas senior team.