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LSS nominee Theo Zimonopoulos on kicking goals

Theo Zimonopoulos is the first to admit his life revolves around soccer.

Theo Zimonopoulos plays soccer for Southern Districts Junior Soccer Association. Picture: Matthew Vasilescu
Theo Zimonopoulos plays soccer for Southern Districts Junior Soccer Association. Picture: Matthew Vasilescu

Theo Zimonopoulos is the first to admit his life revolves around soccer.

The 11-year-old from Fairfield City is a centre midfielder for Southern Districts Junior Soccer Association and spends his spare time training or playing on the field.

Starting as a soccer joey at the age of three, Theo represented Padstow United and Panania Diggers before joining Southern Districts last year.

Theo Zimonopoulos, 11 years old, shows off his skills. Picture: Matthew Vasilescu
Theo Zimonopoulos, 11 years old, shows off his skills. Picture: Matthew Vasilescu

The youngster said his recent transition from striker to centre midfielder had opened up more opportunities for him to help his team.

“I like moving on a goal kick as a midfielder and I also like picking up the ball,” he said.

“You do a lot more running and you have to help your team a lot.”

Theo trains four days a week and also practises with his father, whom he likes looks up to.

He paid tribute to his parents, who have supported his dream of making it big.

“I want to obviously make it into the professional league. I want people to know me as a soccer player as what I do on the field and as a good person on the other side of the field,” he said.

“I look up to Renaldo (Lopes da Cruz) because I feel like I have a similar playing style to him.”

Picture: Matthew Vasilescu
Picture: Matthew Vasilescu

Theo has been nominated for a Local Sports Star award in the Inspiration category, which recognises dedication, courage and commitment to sport.

The competition is sponsored by Featherdale Wildlife Park and Bankstown Sports Club.

Nominate today at localsportsstars.com.au.

Original URL: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/fairfield-advance/lss-nominee-theo-zimonopoulos-on-kicking-goals/news-story/95fc42a87ad205cb3a31cdbb4244c713