Former KL Malay Mail FC footballer Tosa Notaras’ daughter Gia now dons Malaysian colours
“Inever expected my daughter to follow in my footsteps, but I’m absolutely delighted for her.”
Those were the heartfelt words of former Kuala Lumpur Malay Mail FC player Tosa Notaras when asked about his daughter, Gia Athena Notaras, who is representing Malaysia at the Asean Under-16 Girls’ Championship in Indonesia.
Notaras, an Australian of Greek descent, played for KL Malay Mail FC from 1996 until 2001, before settling in Malaysia.
Originally based in the Klang Valley, Notaras and his family moved to Penang seven years ago when he took up a post at The International School of Penang (Uplands).
“We still have a house in Puchong, Selangor, which we visit often,” he said.
“I have two older boys, but didn’t expect it would be my daughter who would follow in my footsteps.
“Gia may not have a traditional local name, but she is a true-blue Malaysian. She was born in Subang Jaya, but now plays for Uplands.”
Notaras, who also played for Floreat Athena in Perth, Australia, said he is amazed by Gia’s dedication and passion for the sport.
“I played the game for fun, but it is beyond fun for her,” said the former defender.
“She has a genuine passion for football that surpassed what I had. She is determined to succeed. I don’t have to motivate her to train. Gia does it all on her own. Besides the school, she also trains with clubs around Penang.”
While over the moon with Gia’s selection for the national team, the former professional is not one to pull any punches.
“She’s more of a defensive midfielder, but played centrally over the past two matches. She’s technically sound, but I think she could improve her pace,” he said.
“She has time on her side, and I hope she achieves all her dreams in football.”
Gia, whose football idol is Argentina’s Lionel Messi, said she is excited to don national colours.
“It feels great and exciting to be with the national team. When I found out I was selected (for the Under-16 tournament), I was happy. Anyone would be happy and proud to represent their country,” Gia, who is determined to make football her career, told Twentytwo13.
“I’ve always wanted to achieve great things in football. I see myself playing the game with the same passion as I am now.
“My idol is Messi. I like how strong and composed he is when he plays. He is also always humble.”
Gia also paid tribute to her father, who was the inspiration for her to play the game. She said she used to have kickabouts with him and her brothers from the time she was six.
“Even today, I still play in the backyard with my dad. My spark and interest in football was influenced by seeing my dad play.”
Meanwhile, Malaysia’s interest in the Under-16 ended yesterday as it failed to be the best runner-up among the three groups. Malaysia defeated Timor Leste 6-1 on Aug 22, but lost 3-1 to Indonesia two days later. The semifinalists are winners of Group A (Indonesia), Group B (Vietnam) and Group C (Australia), and Thailand, who emerged as the best runner-up.
Thailand and Malaysia finished with three points each, but the former’s 7-0 thumping of Singapore, gave it a better goal difference.
Main image: Gia Notaras (No 18), says her father, Tosa inspired her to play football. – FA of Malaysia/Facebook
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