Rockingham takes on nationals

The U12 State sides that travel to a major youth tournament in Queensland later this year both have a distinctly Rockingham feel.

Six budding Rockingham City boys players are part of a 15-strong WA squad that will take part in the National Schools titles in Brisbane in September.

City by far has the biggest representation in the squad, with the closest side boasting only two players.

Girls Andreia Teixeira and Isla Dunne, both 12, have made the cut for girls’ WA side for the tournament.

A number of trials were held recently to weed the best primary school players in the State down to just 15 for the trip.

Former Perth Glory player Scott Halpin coaches City’s U12 premier league side and the State girls’ team.

He described the Rockingham players as “a talented group with a high technical level”.

“This is the highest level of competition for these players of this age,” he said.

“I’m so proud for them and their parents. It’s an incredible achievement for the team.”

Halpin, who teaches at Rockingham Lakes Primary School, said the national competition was regarded as the first step in a professional career.

U12 State representatives

Josh Lomax

Orton Raumati

Alex Haywood-Darke

Luke Richards

Haidar Ghozali

Elijah Halpin

Andreia Teixeira

Isla Dunne