Although deep in preparation for their W-League title defence, Melbourne City have found some time to provide a unique coaching experience for the girls of Brighton Soccer Club.

For players aged 5-16, the Brighton Girls Gala Day on Sunday saw several of City's championship star players including captain Steph Catley, defender Laura Alleway,  striker Larissa Crummer and up and coming player Melina Ayres passing on their knowledge to the next generation.

City's championship players were joined by new signings Lydia Williams, defender Teigen Allen and US signing Erika Tymrak.

The day included free football clinics, a Q&A session with the players as well as photos and autographs.

“It’s fantastic, events like today are important not only to grow the Club but to develop the women’s game as well," said Lydia Williams.

"We have a lot more young players playing the game now and they want to be a Steph Catley or a Lydia Williams when they grow up.”

Photo: Melbourne City Lydia Williams taking part in the Brighton Soccer Club clinic (Photo: Melbourne City)

“It’s pretty exciting and they get very excited, these girls know about the Matildas and they know about City."

For Allen, who started with the Matildas at the same age as the oldest participants, it demonstrated the growth of the game and the rapid changes occurring at grassroots level.

“It’s definitely important to develop girls from a young age and at grassroots level. They learn a lot quicker from a young age,” she said.

“Having the chance to meet us and learn from us today is definitely an experience that all the children will remember and it was great to see these girls out on the pitch and learning new skills.”

Melbourne City are looking to make history as the first club to defend their W-League championship and kick off their season on 6 November 2016.

Photo: Melbourne City Photo: Melbourne City