Spain trip beckons young soccer star

A Hamilton boy is hoping to raise $7000 to fly to Spain next year and take part in an upcoming soccer academy.

Nhlanhla "Tadiwa" Mhlanga, 12, a student at Peachgrove Intermediate, is originally from Zimbabwe but has lived in New Zealand for the past eight years with his family.

After taking part in a sports camp in Matamata in mid-2014, Tadiwa was approached by Soccer Plus director Kim Beale who was impressed with the youth's athletic ability.

"He said he liked the way I was playing soccer," said Tadiwa. "He gave me a letter inviting me to come up to Auckland for soccer trials."

The trials were for the New Zealand teenage team that Beale was putting together to compete next year in Spain at Valencia FC Academy, the fourth largest soccer club in Spain.

"I went to the trials and I got selected to join the team of 18 boys and girls going to Spain in March and April 2015.

"This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for a kid from New Zealand to go and experience how they play soccer at the highest level."

Although excited about the upcoming trip to Spain, Tadiwa and his family are also met with nerves, as the cost to go overseas is up to each individual player.

This means Tadiwa and his family have to raise $7000 to cover all the expenses of the trip.

Tadiwa has been actively fundraising and seeking support from the community, but still has a long way to go to reach his goal.

For now Tadiwa is planning to spend his weekends and school holidays doing odd jobs for family and friends to try and raise the money for the trip.

"I'm willing to do errands, wash cars, and mow lawns," said Tadiwa who is determined to raise the money.

Kim Beale is hopeful those selected can secure financial support in order to go to Spain.

"This is a great privilege and will be a memorable experience," said Beale.

"Any support given to Tadiwa will be greatly appreciated and will be an investment in his football and personal life."

Tadiwa is hopeful that he can raise the money and is planning to share all knowledge he learns with others after the trip.

"I hope to share the skills I learn with other soccer loving kids in Hamilton when I return. And your support with help me achieve my dreams."

Those interested in donating to Tadiwa's soccer journey to Spain can email tadiwamhlanga@hotmail.co.nz.