Three Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) students have proudly represented Australia on the international stage as members of the Subway Joeys U16 national football team.
Corey Da Cruz (De La Salle College Revesby Heights), Georgio Hassarati (Marist College Eastwood) and Aston Reid (St Patrick’s College Sutherland) earned selection for the Joeys squad, competing at the Chinese Football Association (CFA) U16 International Tournament in Hohhot, China, from 28 May to 2 June 2025.
Australia finished runners-up to the host nation, with the tournament featuring elite youth teams from China, Saudi Arabia and Vietnam. After opening the competition with a 2–1 win against both Vietnam and Saudi Arabia, the Subway Joeys were defeated 5–2 by China in a high-intensity final fixture in front of 17,000 fans.
From lunchtime games to international pitches
For Corey Da Cruz, the moment he found out he’d been selected was one of excitement, disbelief, and a quick phone call home.
“I was very happy, excited and extremely grateful. I always hoped to represent my country and to perform on the big stage,” he said.
Corey’s highlight? Scoring for his country. “I always dreamed of it. As soon as I came off the pitch I called my parents. I couldn’t wait to tell them.”
Georgio Hassarati said his school community played a key role in helping him grow in confidence and develop a high-performance mindset.
“My school has given me countless opportunities to prepare me for endeavours like this – both in terms of skill and mindset,” he said.
“Leadership roles and team-based environments help build confidence and composure. I’ve been encouraged to set goals, stay disciplined and develop habits that support growth – all of which have helped me on and off the pitch.”
Aston Reid said the experience pushed him to grow both on and off the pitch.
“I really enjoy football, but I also like that my school life and football are kept separate. That’s one of the reasons I enjoy attending a Sydney Catholic school,” Aston said.
“It gives me the chance to focus on my education during the day and then switch gears and concentrate on football in the evenings. I like having that balance.”
“I know the next couple of years are going to be even tougher, with football taking up more of my time and starting to overlap with school. But I’m confident that the Catholic school system will support me and help me manage both my education and football commitments.”
A school community that couldn’t be prouder
Kate McPherson, De La Salle Revesby Sports Coordinator said Corey’s selection had been a long time coming.
“This was his first national call-up, but we always knew how talented he was,” she said. “We were just waiting for a coach at that level to see it too.”
Kate said flexibility and communication were key to supporting high-performing student-athletes.
“Corey trains with Sydney FC in the mornings, so he arrives late to school most days. It can be a challenge, balancing schoolwork and elite sport. But our staff work hard to help students like Corey stay on track.”
SCS sporting excellence on display
Declan Donohue, SCS Manager of Sport said the boys’ selections reflected not only their ability, but their character.
“These international experiences are not just about football, they’re about cultural exchange, personal growth, and performing under pressure. To do it with the Australian crest on your chest is incredibly special.”
Declan said SCS continues supporting high-achieving athletes through strong school pathways and high-performance programs.
“We’re extremely proud of these young men. They’ve set a brilliant example for others in our system – proof that talent, hard work and support from home and school can take you from lunchtime games to international matches,” he said.
“SCS is committed to giving student-athletes the platform and support they need to chase their goals, whether that’s representing Australia or achieving academic excellence. We’ll be following their journeys closely.”
