From Young Talent to Futsal Fern

Recently, the Futsal Ferns travelled to China for their latest international tour, where they faced the Chinese National Team. This was New Zealand’s third invitation to tour China, with the first taking place in 2019.

Players from Gosal Futsal Academy in the Futsal Ferns; Britney-Lee Nicholson, Molly Judd and Hannah Hegarty.

For Gosal Futsal Academy, the tour carried special meaning. Molly Judd, one of Shingo Ina’s long-time players, was selected for the squad and, at just 17 years old, was the youngest member of the team.

Shingo has coached Molly since she was 11, going back to his futsal coaching days in Wellington. Now studying at the University of Canterbury, Molly is based in Christchurch and training with Gosal Futsal Academy.

Molly Judd at the China International Tour 2026

We asked Molly a few questions about her experience with the Futsal Ferns in China and what it was like to step into the international environment for the first time.

What was the biggest highlight for you from this tour? 

Definitely having the opportunity to play and train with women who I’ve looked up to for so long. Also the first walk out, that was pretty surreal. 

NZ Futsal Ferns vs China National Women’s team

What do you think has helped you the most to prepare for the National team? 

I don’t think anything can fully prepare you for your first experience in the national team. But consistently training makes a massive difference, I also watched back a couple clips/games which gave me an idea of what I might be in for!

How different is it from playing in the SuperLeague and international level?

The physicality is so much more intense. You have to think off the ball just as much, if not more then when you’re on the ball. Lots of quick decisions, having to be ready at any moment!