Sport
18 September, 2023
Wamuran prodigy chases English soccer dream
WAMURAN State School year 5 student Jack Fortnum is counting down the days for the biggest trip of his life so far, as he has secured a stint in England for soccer pursuits.
Jack recently received a $500 donation from the Wamuran Lions Club for travel costs, with his time in England spanning two weeks across the latter part of October and early November.
The Wamuran prodigy has declared that he dreams of playing in the English Premier League (EPL) and hopes to qualify for the Brisbane 2032 Olympics as well.
Currently playing in National Premier Leagues (NPL) academy side Moreton Bay United, Jack was eligible to take part in a three-day trial in Sydney during April while EPL scouts and Union of European Football Association (UEFA) coaches were there.
Other players at the trials came from as far north as Cairns and as far south as country NSW, and Jack was ultimately one of just 11 U10 boys to earn selection for the tour of England.
The Australian squad of 11 will play against the best U10 boys pro-academy soccer teams in England, while the tourists strive to be scouted by an EPL team.
The Wamuran-based scholar said he didn’t mind who he would play for, as long as soccer could become his job.
The Australian squad’s itinerary includes playing against Liverpool, Chelsea, Fulham, Sheffield and Manchester City academies.
Jack and his Australian colleagues will also have the opportunity to attend iconic stadium tours and watch at least one live game, while UEFA-qualified coaching, training and recovery sessions are also part of the tour.
Jack, who plays as a defender, said his favourite player was veteran Spanish professional Sergio Ramos who also plays as a defender.
Jack’s mum Lisa said her son “jumped around the house hugging his brother when he found out he was in the team and going to England”.
“Jack was very grateful to the Wamuran community who supported his efforts,” Lisa said.
“Local businesses donated prizes to his raffle, and people who didn’t even know him bought tickets.
“Jack was often left in awe of the kindness and encouragement of strangers.”
Lisa said her son was particularly excited and grateful when the Wamuran Lions Club made its donation, with the cheque presentation occurring at the Wamuran-based Nasho’s Park.
