Dual Triumph in Malaysia as SD Raiders Girls Claim Borneo Cup Titles

by | Oct 19, 2026 | Football, Home Page News

The SD Raiders Women’s Program has achieved international success, with both the Under 14 and Under 16 Girls teams crowned champions at the Borneo Cup in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.  Adding further recognition to the clubs success, Under 14s player Daniella De Olivera was awarded Player of the Tournament, capping off a memorable campaign for both the individual and the club.

Representing the club with pride throughout the tournament, both squads produced outstanding performances to secure their respective age-group titles, showcasing the talent, determination and depth within the Raiders Women’s Program.

International success for the Raiders

Winning one international title is an achievement in itself. To return home with silverware in both the Under 14 and Under 16s is an outstanding accomplishment and one that reflects the hard work and commitment shown by players, coaches and families throughout the tournament.

The success was guided by coaching staff Goran Kuzmanovic, Julia Chernoukha and Andrew Simmons, whose leadership helped both teams excel throughout the tournament while proudly representing the SD Raiders badge on the international stage.

The dual triumph not only highlights the quality of the current playing group but also serves as another example of the continued growth and strength of the SD Raiders Women’s Program.

 “Captaining the SD Raiders team at the Borneo Cup is a privilege I’ll never forget. Incredible teammates, unforgettable culture and bringing home the trophy for SD is one of the greatest experiences of my football career.” – Audrey Knapp (U16’s Captain)

Beyond the scoreboard

While trophies and individual accolades provide lasting memories of the tournament, the Borneo Cup offered an experience that extended far beyond football.

The tour brought together football and cultural experiences, including interaction with Malaysian players, cultural activities, team dinners, and a day exploring Sapi Island. Malaysian players were also welcomed into Australian squads, demonstrating how football can bring young people from different backgrounds.

For many players, the week provided opportunities to step outside their comfort zones, embrace new experiences and gain a greater appreciation for different cultures and communities. Whether on the pitch competition against the opposition or away from the field sharing experiences, the tour created meaningful connections that transcend football.

 

“The Girls and I had a blast exploring and enjoying their culture. Going into town and trying local food and learning the language along the way was an awesome experince. My favourite part was singing on the bus at the top of our lungs after winning games, hopping into the pool when it felt like a million degrees, and seeing the girls smile. We felt like one big family by the end of the trip and im so happy I was a part of that. What an exciting ending to 2026 with my Raiders Family.” – Grace Pezzullo (U14’s Captain)

Reflecting on the tour, Julia Chernoukha highlighted the broader impact the experience had on the players:

“For the SD Raiders Girls, the Borneo Cup provided an opportunity to develop not only as footballers, but as young people. The experience was built around teamwork, independence, friendship, cultural connection and creating memories together” – Julia Chernoukha

The opportunity to represent the club overseas while immersing themselves in a different culture created invaluable experiences and lifelong memories for the players involved.

As important as the results were, the experience also provided a glimpse into the opportunities the game can create.

“And perhaps most importantly, an opportunity for our girls to see where football can take them.” – Julia Chernoukha

One Team, Two Champions

The Borneo Cup campaign will be remembered not only for the silverware brought home by both teams, but for the friendships, experiences and personal growth gained along the way. For the players, coaches and families involved, the tour represented everything that makes football special, with the opportunity to compete, connect and create lasting memories though the game they love. Returning home as champions in both the Under 14 and Under 16 divisions, the Raiders once again demonstrated the strength of their women’s program and the bright future ahead. 

SD Raiders. Borneo Cup Champions.