Mount Gambier High School is excited to announce two students will travel to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to participate in the 2026 Subway Maxim KL Elite Boys Tournament.
Ruban Cella and Jack Koopman are 2 of 4 Limestone Coast Under 14 boys soccer players to be successfully selected to represent South Australia.
The announcement, made last Wednesday, will see the boys compete in Malaysia in the countries biggest international 7-a-side youth football tournament, featuring young players and coaches across multiple age categories.
Parent, Kim Cella, is ecstatic about the selection, and how hard the two players have worked to make this dream come true.
“We are so proud of the boys, for the way the carried themselves through the gruelling try out process,” she said.
“To secure their positions they had to make it through two cuts of regional players, and finish in the top ten to be selected.”
Kim also observed how opportunities like this enable youth to develop their skills and make new friends across the region.
“It was great to see the boys connect with players from other regions in the Limestone Coast Football Association selection team,” she said.
“We are excited to watch them grow as players from this experience.”
Deputy Principal and Soccer Teacher, Kerran Wingard, also applauds their success.
“Jack and Ruban should be incredibly proud of their selection to represent South Australia at this international soccer tournament,” he said.
“This wonderful achievement reflects their dedication to the sport, their strength of character and their willingness to challenge themselves in a new environment.”
“We wish both boys every success and look forward to seeing them compete against talented players from around the world.”
The remainder of the team, a total of 16, are made up of players from other regional areas such as Whyalla, Port Lincon, and the Riverland, as well as Metro players.
The boys will commit to team trainings in Adelaide every weekend once the 2026 Limestone Coast Football Association finals have been completed.