Reuben Haley to represent NSW at upcoming National Youth Championships

The Cobram Roar defender has been playing soccer since the age of five, starting in the Cobram junior soccer associations.

“At the start all my friends played it. It was social back (then) and gradually over time it got better and better,’’ he said.

For Haley it’s the all-encompassing nature of the sport which draws him to soccer.

“There’s the social side that I love and the physical side as well... it keeps you in shape,” he said.

Currently Haley plays for Cobram Roar on Sundays and also for the Albury Wodonga Association Representative Team, which comprises the best players from the various teams that make up the association.

“I have tournaments with them throughout the year,” he said.

For Haley, representing the state was a lifelong goal, but to get there wasn’t easy.

For him, and players like him, he had to go through a talent support program which involves the best players in the region.

Then through the month of July, the players had to go to Sydney where, during selection, their numbers were whittled down through a series of games and exercises.

Those, like Haley, who made the cut were selected to represent NSW.

For the young local, who has been selected before, the feeling of knowing he is going to represent the state is one he is grateful for.

“It's an honour and privilege to represent myself, my family and my state,” he said.

The under-15s boys’ soccer National Youth Championships will be held in Sydney in October, but for Haley his journey doesn’t stop there.

“I'd love to go as far as I can professionally,” he said.

Like all budding soccer stars, Haley has his favourite player and team.

“I go for Southampton... but my favourite player is Rúben Dias (who plays for Manchester City),” he said.

Asked if he would recommend soccer to anyone interested, Haley’s response was definitive.

“Go for it. It’s such a great sport and it’s just good fun.”