Young Harry (12) dreamt of having football goals at his rural school, and he turned these dreams into reality.
Harry and his family are die-hard Auckland FC fans, sharing a special love for football that has fostered an unwavering energy in their son to play the sport, but for young Harry, attending the rural Netherton School, there were no football goals for him and his friends to enjoy the game.
Harry decided that this obstacle wasn’t going to stand in his way, as he attempted to raise money for goalposts, applying for funding through his local boards.
His determined effort paid off, with Harry raising enough funding for goals and the school officially opening the goalposts at the start of the week.
As a reward for Harry’s achievements, representatives from his favourite club made the trip down to Paeroa to celebrate the occasion, bringing a few pieces of silverware with them.
Auckland FC’s Football School programme assisted in officially opening Harry’s goals at Netherton School, as well as running football skill sessions and giving students the opportunity to see the A-League and OFC Pro League trophies up close.
The day became a celebration of football, with nearly 100 children getting involved with the sport and the school’s new equipment. After being recognised by his principal, Harry addressed his fellow students before being presented with a signed Auckland FC jersey to cap off the day.
A day that young Harry and his fellow students won’t forget in a hurry.
It’s one thing to talk about a dream, but to turn it into reality is something quite special, and the entire Auckland FC family is proud of Harry and what he has achieved and grateful to be part of his story.
Photo Credit: Alice Parminter/THE VALLEY PROFILE
