Courtesy: The Manly Daily


Matthew's malaysian adventure

14 Feb 11

by Andrew Prentice

LIKE so many starry-eyed kids on the peninsula, Matthew Mamo dreams of representing Australia with a ball at his feet.

Difference is, he doesn’t have long to wait when it comes to achieving the lofty goal.

Last month at the official Australian futsal team trials, the Manly Vale Public School student knew what was required if he wanted to book his seat on the plane ahead of a combined age tour of Malaysia in November and December.

Keep the ball on the deck, be good off both feet and be a team player.

It was a simple ethos that culminated in his selection, following three days of intense drills at Windsor.

``I didn’t know what to expect, I just did my best,’’ he said.

``Some of the players were very good, so I made sure I did the basic things right.

``When they read my name out I was very proud, representing Australia in a tournament overseas is going to be awesome.’‘

The 11-year-old began his journey to Vikings honours four years ago.

He learnt the basics in a heart beat, and is a regular on the five-a-side courts at Freshwater every Friday night.

He is also tipped to break into the Northern Beaches Breakers’ under-12 squad.

Northern Beaches Futsal Association president Mario Mesite says he is one to watch.

``You always want to see kids like Matthew do well, he has a genuine appetite for the game,’’ he said.

``What I like about him is his attitude and how he knows his role on the pitch, he never tries to be flashy.

``He is the type of player that will thrive in a competitive environment, and once he comes back from Malaysia, I am sure his game will be at a new level.’‘

Matthew is also looking forward to a big year when he turns out for Pittwater RSL FC’s under-12 division one squad.

``I prefer futsal, it is quicker and you have to think on your feet,’’ he said.

``But playing on the big field is fun as well, hopefully we go well.’


Posted by Luca Ranocchiari --> luca.ranocchiari@futsalplanet.com