Ten-year-old Sydney girl, Michaela Togias is heading to Manchester in January next year after grabbing the attention of English Premier League Academy scouts.
Manchester United and Manchester City scouts watched her at the Global Football Network showcase in Sydney in April. Across two days of training, players aged 10 to 19 came together to put their skills on display in the hopes of being offered a sporting scholarship.
“There were 60 girls at the showcase and I was a little nervous because I was the youngest and smallest there but I just gave it my all and had fun,” Michaela told The Daily Telegraph.
“At the end of the showcase, the scouts asked to speak to my mum and told her that I have what it takes to play in the UK.”
It was news that not only “put a big smile” on her face, but saw her take one massive step closer to realising her dream of playing abroad.
“To think that in a few months time I’ll be playing in the UK is like a dream come true,” Michaela said.
As for her career aspirations, she hopes to one day be sporting the green and gold, representing her country as a Matilda.
“I hope to one day make my country proud just like Sam Kerr and Ellie Carpenter,” she said.
Speaking also with The Daily Telegraph was the director of Global Football Network Manchester UK, John Pladas, who said: “I am looking forward to having Michaela over in Manchester in January working with our coaches, playing many games against some of the best players and experience what pro-players experience during her stay.”
“Her selection for the scholarship is well earned and deserved,” he said.
SOURCE: The Daily Telegraph
