The Matildas have not only captured the hearts of a nation with record crowds at all 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup matches and record TV ratings, they have already inspired the next generation of soccer stars.

They certainly have captured the hearts of the Lismore Thistles Grade 12 girls' soccer team. The only Lismore girl's soccer team in the Girl's Grade 12 to Grade 15.

Six of the team were lucky enough to be flown to Sydney to be flag bearers at the World Cup quarter-final to see finalists England beat Columbia. They were selected as one of six clubs from the more than 230 clubs across Northern NSW to be involved in the 2023 Women’s Football World Cup.

Coach Dave McPherson told the Lismore App the girls "Loved it. They had big smiles the whole time."

Dave said the Matildas have not only inspired the girls, but they have increased their understanding of the game.

"They have been very excited about every game. The big thing at training is that a lot of the stuff I have been talking to them about, they now say, "oh, that's like the Matildas do."

"Not just Sam Kerr but other team members. My daughter talks about Hayley Raso, while others talk about Caitlin Foord or Mackenzie Arnold."

"Even their talk at half-time on the field, they are saying things like "I was calling for you to pass back when there was space. And their celebrations are different. When they beat Lennox Head on Friday night, they ran from all over the field to celebrate as a team.....like the Matildas."

The 2-0 win against Lennox Head on Friday night moves the Lismore Thistle's Under 12s Girls into the Grand Final next weekend against the undefeated Byron Bay team.

Thistles have played Byron three times this year, losing 3-0 in the first game, 2-0 in the second, then playing out a nil-all draw two weeks ago after extra time that saw Byron move straight into the Grand Final as minor premiers. Under 12s do not have penalty shootouts.

When talking about their chances in the Grand Final, Dave said the team are "confident but not cocky".

"Last time they had chances, and we did too. It came down to defence. It will take something special to score a goal, but I believe they can do it."

"They are looking forward to the experience of being in a Grand Final."

Like the Matildas, win or lose, the Lismore Thistle's Grade 12s are better players and a better team, thanks to the 2023 Women's World Cup efforts of the Matildas.