The prestigious Gothia Cup ” described as the world’s top youth soccer tournament ” is in Gothenburg from July 14-20, with more than 100 international teams.
Junior committee president Mark Cheveralls said while the tour was an annual event for the club, players had to work to gain a place.
‘This is the fourth or fifth time that we’ve sent a team to Denmark and Sweden,’ he said.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOW‘While many of the parents might be able to write a cheque, we don’t allow them to do that for the youth ” they have to earn their way onto the tour.
‘Firstly, they have to be good enough to be able to participate, but also fund their way ” last year’s team raised $50,000 through car washes, chocolate sales and quiz nights.’
Cheverall said Subiaco provided opportunities for players to join several tours throughout their time at the club, reinforcing skills outside the realm of soccer itself.
‘The philosophy underpinning this is about the development of our youth using sport,’ he said.
‘We have three tours that we send them to: the Bunbury Cup, which is mainly the beginners; then when they’re under 13 or 14 we send them on a nine-day tour of Queensland for the Gold Coast Cup; then this is the pinnacle for them, being able to go to Gothenburg.’
In Sweden, the 15s team will receive an added honour, being selected to carry the Australian flag at the opening ceremony, which attracts a crowd of 50,000 people.