Cooper claims gold as Valentino soars for the stars

Former Pambula Public student Cooper Woods has claimed gold at the Winter Olympics, while fellow South Coast product Valentino Guseli is in the final of the men’s halfpipe.

Students in green and gold. Students in green and gold.
Image: Students at Narooma Public School are getting right behind Valentino Guseli as he goes for glory at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Former Pambula Public School student Cooper Woods has stormed to victory in the men’s Moguls at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina.

Woods claimed gold with an incredible final run, equalling the score of Canadian Mikaël Kingsbury but winning on a countback thanks to his superior turn scores on the slopes.

Meanwhile, former Narooma Public School student Valentino Guseli will be competing for gold in the men’s snowboard halfpipe final tonight, qualifying in sixth place.

Principal Paul Sweeney said students at Narooma Public were getting right behind their hometown hero, dressing in green and gold ahead of the final.

“We decided we’re going to have a green and gold day to recognise Valentino's achievements,” Mr Sweeney told ABC Radio.

“Some people have even been encouraged to wear his big curly wig because, as you can probably tell, he’s known for his hairstyles.”

A composite photo of students in green and gold. A composite photo of students in green and gold.
Image: Main pic: Students at Pambula Public School celebrate Cooper Woods' gold medal win in the men's Moguls. Smaller pics: Students and staff at Narooma Public celebrated the Winter Olympics with a green and gold day.

Mr Sweeney said there was a massive buzz among students at the school and in the wider Narooma community.

“We are just so proud of Valentino and obviously his achievements,” he said.

“Seeing a local kid on the world stage is something which our kids can aspire to. Valentino is definitely somebody who is popular, he’s a very determined young man and always willing to chat to our kids when he’s in town.

“We love the qualities he displays and the determination he shows.

“Basically, we’re saying to our kids, anything is possible if you put in the work.”

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