CAC Football Academy Star Heads to Germany
Coomera Anglican College is proud to announce that one of our standout Year 10 students, Kade Stasiakowski, will be embarking on a remarkable journey to Bavaria, Munich, to join the academy Deutsches Fussball Internat ( DFI), a prestigious football (soccer) academy. Kade's success story is a testament to our Football Academy and Pathways Programme, which embodies our belief that "Anything is Possible."
Kade's football journey began at the tender age of eight when he joined the Coomera Colts Football Club alongside his friends. Demonstrating an exceptional talent and commitment to the game, he quickly ascended through the ranks. As part of our Coomera Anglican College Football Academy, under the diligent mentorship of Coach Sam Smith (Head of Academy who retired in April 2024) and Coach Steve Baker, Kade honed various aspects of his game. Thanks to their guidance, he transitioned to Souths United and now plays for the Under 18’s Ipswich United FQA side as a 15-year-old.
Kade's dedication and hard work bore fruit when he received several offers from academies across Europe. After trialling in Italy and sending his game highlights to multiple academies in England and Germany, Kade was ultimately accepted into a prestigious soccer school in Bavaria, Munich, following a trial in Sydney with affiliates of the German academy.
Kade is eager to immerse himself in the rich German culture, meet his extended family more frequently, and engage in an intensive professional training regime. He will also complete a rigorous German language course and maintain his Australian schooling through correspondence. The soccer academy in Munich promises a daily schedule that balances professional training and academic education. Kade is looking forward to developing his skill set by training twice a day and engaging in the local football culture by playing with a club that dates back to 1860.
"This opportunity will allow me to ascend to new heights in my football career while enriching my personal development. I’m thrilled about the cultural diversity, learning a new language, and the invaluable life lessons that come with this experience,""
Throughout his time at the academy, Kade aims to refine specific technical skills and elevate his overall football game. He believes that this experience will contribute significantly to his growth as a footballer and an individual. He recognises challenges such as homesickness and cultural adjustment but plans to stay connected with his friends and family via digital communication platforms.
"This experience will fuel my long-term aspirations," Kade added. "I dream of playing professional football and representing my country on the international stage. For other students aspiring to follow a similar path, I encourage you to dream big and take calculated risks to achieve your goals.
Current Head of Football Academy, Andy Callaghan said that this opportunity for Kade, reinforces the hard work and dedication of all students and coaches within the Academy.
"Our mission at Coomera Anglican College Football Academy is to provide every student with the opportunities and support needed to reach their full potential. We strive to create comprehensive development pathways that cater to individual strengths and aspirations, ensuring that each student can pursue their dreams with confidence and determination. It's our belief that through dedicated mentorship and an integrated educational approach, anything is possible for our students.
Kade agrees. "Coomera Anglican College has been pivotal in balancing my academic and athletic pursuits, ensuring I thrive in both. The College's Football Academy and Pathways Programme have provided me with the high-level training and support needed to excel in football while maintaining balance with my academic performance. Their holistic approach has prepared me for this incredible opportunity in Germany, and I truly believe that their commitment to developing well-rounded individuals has set me up for success on and off the field.”
Kade's journey underscores the value of Coomera Anglican College's Football Academy and Pathways Programme, proving that "Anything is Possible." We are incredibly proud of Kade and look forward to watching him grow both on and off the field in Germany.