Two Gisborne brothers have been having a ball as they represented Central Victoria at the 2026 National Club Futsal Championships in Sydney.
The competition is Australia’s biggest club futsal event, held every January in Sydney with more than 2000 players competing.
For many participants, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent their state, and potentially Australia in future international competitions.
Cooper and Ollie Brennan both enjoyed the opportunity to spend plenty of time on the court.
Both boys were selected for the Central Victorian State Team through the Australian Futsal Association.
Twelve-year-old Cooper scored three goals for his side, while eight-year-old Ollie scored one.
“I competed in a big tournament last year in Brisbane, so I knew what to expect this time,” Cooper said.
“I was really happy to be picked again and to meet some new teammates.
“It was so good. Playing in front of so many people was exciting and the whole competition was a banger.”
For Ollie it was his first tournament.
“I was so excited to be picked for the team,” he said. “I felt so happy and it was cool to see teams from other states.
“It was even better than I thought. Even though it was a busy week, I got to spend lots of time with my friends in my team.”
Cooper started playing futsal last year when he went to a new school.
“My friend invited me to join his team,” he said. “I play at Macedon Ranges Futsal every Thursday night.”
Like many families, Ollie did what his brother did and started playing as well.
“Now I want to play every day.”
It was a family affair in Sydney with their parents involved as team managers and with coaching.
Both boys said it was pretty cool to have their parents there and on the bench.
“My mum and dad were good team managers and took care of all the kids,” said Ollie.
“It was fun having them on the bench with me. I didn’t get to watch any of my brothers games but I saw lots of videos and photos.”
Cooper added, “my mum is a really good organiser and my dad is good at helping with coaching, so I like having them there.”
The two are now hoping this is just the beginning when it comes to futsal.
“I really really want to play in the big tournaments again later this year and I’m joining Futsal Academy so I can learn more skills,” Ollie said.
Cooper added, “I’m joining a Futsal Academy this year and really hope to get selected for an international tour.”
Resolve Finance Caroline Springs sponsored the two boys to help get them to Sydney.
