PORT Macquarie teenager Cooper Lamond is one step closer to achieving his dream of becoming a professional footballer after securing a place in the Central Coast Mariners Academy under-16 squad for 2027.
The talented young player, who has developed his skills with Iona Bulls and Shoot Football Academy, will begin preseason training in November, marking an exciting milestone in his soccer journey.
Cooper’s opportunity came after a scout spotted him playing at the Northern NSW Youth Championships in July, leading to an invitation to trial with the Mariners’ under-15 Academy squad.
“I attended four trials with the team and was offered a position to join the team not long after my last trial,” Cooper told News Of The Area.
“I was pretty speechless when I read it, it was hard to believe but I was thrilled.
“Although I didn’t say much, you couldn’t wipe the smile off my face.”
Cooper’s passion for soccer began in 2016, when he was just five years old, playing with Port Saints FC before joining Iona in 2018.
“I had so much fun that I knew this was the sport for me,” he said.
A turning point came during the 2024 Champions of Champions tournament in Coffs Harbour, when Iona coach Brett Stephens encouraged Cooper to believe in his abilities.
“Coach Brett is always telling us to ‘be brave and back yourself’ and reminding us that if you make a mistake, you learn from it and move on,” Cooper said.
A trip to the United Kingdom with Shoot Football Academy in January 2025 further strengthened his ambition to pursue professional football.
“Seeing the level of commitment, discipline, and hard work required made me realise that talent alone isn’t enough,” Cooper said.
His dedication has seen him play across four Iona teams this season, coach the under-6 Iona Roar alongside teammate Cruz Kawaguchi, referee matches, and attend multiple weekly training sessions.
He credits coaches Brett Stephens and Tony Judge, alongside his teammates, for their encouragement and support.
“Without the encouragement and support from Coach Brett at Iona, Coach Tony at Shoot Academy, and all of my teammates across both teams, I don’t think I would be anywhere near where I am today,” he said.
“Do what you love and find something you’re really passionate about.
“There will be tough days, but if you stay committed and keep putting in the effort, it will pay off in one way or another.”
With aspirations to play in the Premier League or represent Australia, Cooper hopes his journey inspires other young athletes.
By Sis HIGGINS
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