Western United Junior Academy stars John Woldegiorgis and Aidan Adams have made history by representing New Zealand at the Men’s U16 FIFA Youth Series in Zurich.
A member of the Club’s inaugural WUFC Development Centre intake, Adams has become the first player to play for a national team after progressing through the first level of Western United’s talent pathway.
Equally, Woldegiorgis was a foundation member of Western United’s Under 14’s squad in 2023, progressing into the Under 17’s this year and now onto international football.
New Zealand performed superbly at the tournament, beating Switzerland and Guatemala in the group stage to reach the final where they ultimately fell short against Paraguay.
Western United Academy Director Anthony Frost delighted in the milestone achievement for both players and for the Club’s pathway system.
“This has been a monumental achievement for both John and Aidan and we are incredibly proud of their successes,” he said.
“Of course, we identified both players early on in their footballing journeys, but as young players they have shown a work ethic and set of values that has allowed them to progress through the ranks and into an international environment.
“I wish to congratulate both boys and their families on this achievement, and also extend my congratulations and gratitude to our Academy staff at Western United who continue to prepare our players to compete at the highest levels.”
A 2009-born talent, Woldegiorgis scored three goals in eight matches for the Under 16’s before being elevated to the Under 17’s this year, where he has gone on to add six goals in eight games.
Woldegiorgis is an exciting left-footed winger with speed an eye for goal, but also has the quality and versatility to cover defensively in a full-back position.
Adams is 2010-born and has similarly shone above his own age group, featuring six times for the Under 16’s in 2025 on top of 10 appearances and three goals with the Under 15’s.
An attacking full-back, the youngster has explosive athleticism and strong technical ability in his arsenal with a desire to development that has seen him progress through the Western United pathway.
It’s a big couple of weeks for Western United talents representing New Zealand with Luka Coveny and Harry Casci called into the Under 20’s for an upcoming trip to Chile.
