KEILOR’S Luke Ward already has a bursting trophy cabinet and it is likely more silverware will be around the corner for the up-and-coming soccer player.

The Green Gully junior was recently gained selection in the under-12 SSV State Football (Soccer) team. Luke made the final squad of 14 – a noteworthy achievement considering about 6000 aspiring soccer players from across Victoria tried out.

The Keilor Primary School Year 6 student will represent Victoria between 29 August and 3 September in Newcastle. Luke, who moved to Australia from England in 2008, rated it as his best-ever achievement in his chosen sport.

“I went through zones, regionals and numerous other trials. In the end, I was overwhelmed and really pleased to make it,” he said.

“I’ve got about 20, 30 or 40 medals, maybe, at the moment, and trophies for tournaments.

“I love the feeling of playing a team sport.”

Luke is a midfielder his home club’s under-12A team but will be a defender for the state side.

The 12-year-old started playing soccer seven years ago and has spent the past two years at Green Gully. Luke wants to join the professional ranks and says his speed, vision and strong tackling are his assets.

“I’d love to play professionally. I don’t mind where I make it when I’m older, but I’ve always been a fan of Arsenal in the English Premier League.”