North Sydney United junior footballer aims to play professionally and become a Socceroo
North Sydney United footballer Sam Abrahamian said he was ‘hooked’ on the sport after watching the 2006 World Cup.
Local Sports Stars
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North Sydney United footballer Sam Abrahamian aims to play professionally and, having trained at prestigious European clubs, it’s a realistic goal.
Sam, who also wants to become a Socceroo, is this week’s Local Sports Star nominee in the Young Sporting Spirit category.
The 15-year-old’s father, John Abrahamian, introduced him to the sport.
“I remember watching the 2006 World Cup and it had me hooked,” Sam said.
“I just fell in love straight away with the sport. I did not want to do anything but football.
“I idolise a lot of the Italian national team players from 2006.
“I watched the semi-final against Germany and when Italy scored two quick goals in extra time, I remember trying in the backyard, as a kid, to master everything that they did.”
Sam trains six times a week and plays two to three games a week. He is on trial with Shore’s senior squads, despite only being in Year 10.
His father describes him as a “dangerous attacking midfielder” who displays sportsmanship to teammates and the opposition.
“It’s my favourite thing to do,” Sam said.
“I just like having the ball at my feet and doing what I enjoy. I forget my problems whenever I’m on the pitch.”
Sam’s training in Spain with clubs CF Cracks and Real Madrid are among his biggest achievements.
He plans to train with Bayern Munich in Germany and Chelsea in London in September, and hopes to trial for Paris Saint-Germain in France.
His overseas training arose through a football coach, Gerry Gomez, and North Sydney United.
“It’s really proven to me that I can make it overseas and compete,” Sam said.
“You get the experience of playing at a high level, you gain connections and you learn new things, whether it be the culture of the countries or just what it really takes to make it as a professional.”
Sam said the biggest challenge with the world game was the competition.
“It’s the most popular sport in the world and you need to be extremely fit, quick, strong and skilful,” he said.
“You need a really good, extensive understanding of the game to have a chance at cracking the top leagues.
“It really comes down to your dedication, sacrifice and hard work.”
Nominate a Local Sports Star online — entry is free — at dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/localsportsstars
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