Letter to Callan

You're a young football prodigy, wide-eyed and unsure of what the future holds.

You've been watching games for years now, always from the stands, always with your parents by your side.

You've just been signed by one of the top academies in the country, Auckland Grammar School, and now you have an environment wherein you can grow as a player and strive for a place on the pitch. That place, however, is earnt, not given.

Your coaches will guide you, but it's up to you to train and develop all aspects of your game.

Your teammates are what make the game enjoyable, so play with them not against them.

Play the game with energy and enthusiasm, savouring every minute, because that final whistle will approach more quickly than you expect.

And when that final penalty kick comes, believe in yourself and know that you will score.