Arabic version: اختيار المراهق مارك أوكونور من داروين لمنتخب أستراليا تحت 15 عاماً

According to ABC News, Darwin Olympic midfielder Mark O’Connor has been selected to represent Australia at the inaugural FIFA Under-15 World Cup and Festival in Baku, Azerbaijan. The 15-year-old will travel next month in a squad of 14 boys to face some of the world’s leading young footballers.

O’Connor began playing football in Darwin streets before his father enrolled him at a local club. He later played for Greater Palmerston United, Mindil Aces and Darwin Olympic. He said he was “almost in shock, in disbelief” when he learned of his national selection, before feeling excited by the opportunity.

Darwin Olympic president Yianni Prouzos said O’Connor’s selection also highlighted the talent available in the Northern Territory. He recalled being impressed by O’Connor’s movement with the ball, changes of direction and scanning, while praising the midfielder’s determination when challenged by opponents.

O’Connor said competing for the Northern Territory at interstate tournaments, often as an underdog, helped prepare him for the international challenge. He said it would be special to play against elite junior footballers and assess how he compares with them. Liverpool’s Steven Gerrard is his inspiration.

Football Australia selected players from all nine of its member federations, including young players from metropolitan and regional areas. Talent identification lead Michael Cooper said regional representation mattered because young players needed role models and confidence that a pathway existed. O’Connor said hard work and dedication could help Territory players reach any level.