PORT Macquarie futsal player Bailey Spokes has a massive opportunity beckoning him in his chosen sport, but he needs your help to get to the United Kingdom.
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Spokes has been picked in the Australian under 14s team to head to the UK for a tour in April, but he'll soon be relying on donations from generous locals to get there.
His selection comes on the back of a great performance in the Nationals School Titles at Brisbane last week.
Spokes' Far Northern NSW team which is coached by his father Brad was knocked out of contention at the quarter final stage by Northern NSW.
It didn't harm his selection chances, and three of Spokes' teammates were also picked for Australia.
They included keeper Keegan Hughes. The Taree resident was named the goalie of the competition.
The humble Spokes was thrilled with his selection in the team.
He couldn't believe he had an email advising him he was in the team.
"I went well and the team did too," Spokes said. He counts his best attributes as passing and attacking, but according to another of his coaches, Spokes' ability to listen to advice and put it into practice sets him apart.
Mick Day, who oversees Spokes' progress at the Gol Brazil Futebol Clube in Port Macquarie, said Spokes also has a strong work ethic on his side.
He's always half an hour early to training, and the last one to leave.
"You can see he's thirsty for knowledge," Day said.
"That's the biggest thing."
He said the trip next April could change Spokes' life.
"It's a massive opportunity for him," he said.
"A lot of the UK and European teams choose their football teams from the futsal teams.
"It's not going to be easy though. The teams they play are going to be well drilled."
The itinerary is being worked out, but academy matches and English Premier League stadium tours and games are on the cards for the touring party.
The Spokes family are looking for sponsors to get on board, and are setting up an account to help young Bailey get on the plane.
Keep an eye out in the Port News for more on his progress, but in the meantime, you can ring Brad Spokes on 0481 060 456, to find out how you can help.