World Cup dreams beckon for 10-year-old Moorabbin soccer prodigy

YOUNG Moorabbin soccer star Harry Durand dreams of one day being a a household name on the world stage.

Ten year old Soccer Star Harry at Football Stars Academy in Moorabbin.

HARRY Durand dreams of one day being a big soccer star on the world stage.

The 10-year-old trains at Moorabbin’s Football Stars Academy and can’t wait for the World Cup, where the best players in the world, including his favourite, Cristiano Ronaldo, will battle it out this month.

“I love soccer because of the feeling I get when I’m playing, the intensity and competitiveness it brings out in me,” Harry said.

“I’d love the chance to play for my country in a World Cup one day.”

The Bentleigh footballer has been training at the academy three times a week since the 2010 World Cup.

Academy director Peter Nikolakopoulos said there was often a surge in inquiries during tournaments.

“Having Australia in the World Cup is a great thing for soccer in this country,” he said.

“It inspires so many children to take up the game. Soccer can provide them with important life skills including teamwork, discipline and good sportsmanship.”