Max Veivers set to embark on football dream with Spain Football Academy

An International football academy that has produced premier league champions and European stars has snapped up an Aussie teen sensation who looks set to become the nation’s next big football export.

Sunshine Coast football talent Max Veivers. Picture: Patrick Woods.

Sunshine Coast football star Max Veivers has edged another step closer to his professional sporting dream after being accepted into the Spain Football Academy in Seville.

The program has mentored and excelled the careers of professional stars such as Sergio Garcia (Barcelona, Zaragoza, Real Betis, Espanyol), Adrian (Real Betis, West Ham United, Liverpool FC), Benat (Athletico Bilbao, Real Betis) and Jose Mari (Atletico Madrid, AC Milan, Villarreal).

The Kawana Waters State College student, who began playing football when he was two-years-old, has represented the Sunshine Coast Fire and been a part of the TSP (Talent Support Program) for the National Premier League.

The 15-year-old is a damaging striker and said he was excited for the opportunity to showcase his skills.

“I had been nagging my dad for a while to film my games where we would then cut up clips of me playing and send them off as highlight videos and resumes to a number of different clubs and academies in Europe,” Veivers said.

“A few got back to us but this is the one we thought would be the best as their job is to put players into the academy where you live, train and undergo school and then end up with a club outside of the academy.

“I fly out on August 23 and the first season goes for 10 months but ideally I want to make it a permanent move and end up earning a professional contract.”

Sunshine Coast football talent Max Veivers. Picture: Patrick Woods.

The keen Manchester City fan said he was looking forward to the challenge.

“I still don’t think it’s fully sunk in and I don’t think it will until I’m arriving there on the plane but I’m very very excited,” he said.

“The matches and skill level in Australia is great and I have made lots of good friends from football but over there it’s almost like their whole life and that’s what I want to be around.”

Kawana Waters State College Football Of Excellence coach Alex Shaw said it was bittersweet to see Veivers depart.

“We’re all very excited as anytime we have kids coming through that receive opportunities elsewhere we’re always very encouraging and supportive,” he said.

“It’s sad that he’s moving away as he’s brought a lot to the field but also off-field and in his classes.

“He’s got his own song called Viva Las Veivers as he’s been a big influence, a key leader and a great player and we wish him all the best.”

Veivers was extremely thankful for the support from his family, coaches, teammates and friends that have helped him reach this point.

Originally published as Max Veivers set to embark on football dream with Spain Football Academy