Celebrating Student Achievement

Congratulations Cooper!

Our Year Four student Cooper spent the September holidays in Osaka and Tokyo, training and competing in soccer tournaments with his academy, SDC. His team won both editions of the Mate International Tournament, and Cooper was proud to be awarded tournament MVP at both!

Alongside the tournaments, the team trained with J-League coaches, including one session conducted entirely in Japanese. We asked Cooper about his amazing experience - here's what he had to say!

How long have you been playing soccer?

Four years.

How were you feeling in the lead-up to your overseas tournament?

I was feeling a bit nervous but also excited.

How did you feel when you arrived in Japan?

I felt relieved and happy.

Did you experience any challenges at the tournament? If yes, how did you overcome them?

I did experience a challenge on the plane when my legs started to hurt and I still had four hours to go…

How did you feel when the tournament was all over?

I felt really proud of myself.

What was the best thing about playing overseas / what did you enjoy most?

I enjoyed experiencing the food also versing other teams.

What's your favourite thing about soccer?

My team.

Would you recommend that other students give soccer a try? Why?

I think that people should have a try at soccer because you learn teamwork and discipline.

Has anyone or anything helped with your soccer development?

I would have to say my family and friends.

Do you have any future soccer (or other) goals that you are aiming for?

A future goal I have is making it pro.

Do you have any advice for other students who are working towards their goals?

Yes I do which is NEVER GIVE UP.

Well said Cooper! Thanks for sharing your exciting news with us, and congratulations on your success - what a terrific example of being a global learner and leader, exceeding expectations.

Would you like to share your child's extra-curricular achievement or an example of your child or family taking action within our wider community? Please get in touch with our editor at Fran.Milic@education.vic.gov.au. We'd love to hear from you.