Koala encounter a highlight for unbeaten US Senior Nationals

Emily Leuthold had only ever seen koalas from a distance until the US Senior Nationals soccer team visited Dreamworld today, taking a break from their unbeaten run at the Pan Pacific Masters Games to enjoy the sights of the Gold Coast.

“Getting up close and personal with a koala was probably the highlight of this trip,” Leuthold said.

“I’ve seen koalas from far away at the zoos before, but that was the first time I’ve been up close and personal and they’re as cute as advertised. They’re adorable.”

On the pitch, the US Senior Nationals have won all four of their matches in the 30+ Football division without conceding a goal. Two more wins would put them through to Saturday’s gold medal match.

“The tournament’s going well. Everyone we’ve met is so hospitable and so friendly,” Leuthold said.

“We’re 4–0, and we have two more games in the regular bracket, and then if we win the next two games, we’ll play the gold medal match on Saturday.”