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NZ Football Youngster Joaquin Hollis Set To Play On World Stage In Barcelona
Nine years of kicking a ball around at the local park has led to this moment for Joaquin Hollis - one of only 10 New Zealand players under 10 to be chosen to play on the world stage.
The 9-year-old has been selected to play football in Barcelona this April, at a competition run by Barça Academy, the junior programme associated with internationally recognised football club Barcelona FC.
Joaquin attended an experience camp that was held by Barça Academy in Wellington at the beginning of the year.
The academy is for children and young people between four and 18 years of age, with the aim of providing comprehensive football training.
After the camp wrapped up, Joaquin's father, Sam Hollis, received a call from the organisers.
He initially thought Joaquin had been selected to attend another training camp at the end of the year.
"They mentioned they were going to be selecting some kids for an end of year experience camp," he said.
"They didn't mention anything about a world cup".
However, Joaquin had been selected as one of just 10 players in New Zealand invited to the Barça Academy World Cup as part of the Under 10's team.
"It was a very, very proud moment," he said.
"It was an awesome phone call to take."
He had first noticed Joaquin's talent two years earlier, on a family trip to the park.
"These three kids came along, they had a football and suggested we play against each other," he said.
"[Joaquin] basically schooled them," he said.
"He was running rings around them".
"I was like - wow, he's pretty good!"
Jamie, Joaquin's step mum, said most parents thought their children were talented, but it was another thing to have his talent recognised by professionals in Barcelona.
"It's really a credit to his effort, hard work and skill," she said.
After Barcelona, Joaquin will continue with his passion for football, returning home in time for the local football season to start in May.
He would continue training with his coach, which he had done for the past six months.
"We want to give him every opportunity," said Sam.
"But at the same time I don't want him to overdo it.
"I want him to enjoy the game and have fun with the game."
Joaquin's family have set up a Givealittle page to cover travel, accommodation and tournament fees.
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