BIG LEAGUE: Stanthorpe's Cameron Crestani has learnt a lot while playing with the Brisbane Roar youth team. Photo Daniel Elliott / Stanthorpe Border Post

BIG LEAGUE: Stanthorpe's Cameron Crestani has learnt a lot while playing with the Brisbane Roar youth team. Photo Daniel Elliott / Stanthorpe Border Post Daniel Elliott

WHEN he was offered a contract with the Brisbane Roar youth team, Cameron Crestani did not expect much game time.

So far this season the Stanthorpe 16-year-old has played a role in half a dozen games and become an important part of the team's defence.

Crestani said the A-League feeder competition had been his biggest football challenge so far.

"It has been more than what I expected and I didn't think I would get as much game time as I have," he said.

"The quality of the games has been of a very high standard and it is the toughest competition I've played in.

"It's good to be told by the coach you've played a good game."

Crestani said a highlight of his time in the competition had been playing with, as well as against, football players who started for their teams in the A-League and he was a better player for the experience.

"They encourage you a lot and are very supportive," he said.

"If you make a mistake they'll tell you where you went wrong and how to fix it next time.

"I'm now more aware of the game around me and my passing speed and fitness has improved."