Jonathan Parra has been chosen to represent the Victorian Primary Schools’ Sports Association under-12 squad at September’s School Sport Australia Soccer Exchange.By Marc McGowan
HAMPTON Park youngster Jonathan Parra is set to take his soccer tricks on the road after making the cut for the Victorian Primary Schools’ Sports Association under-12 side.
Jonathan, 11, was destined to play the sport, with his father Segundo a former coach and older brother Christopher, 14, already involved.
“I’ve been playing soccer since I could walk and competitively since seven,” Jonathan said.
“It’s fun to play and keeps you fit. It is a family thing and I guess I was born with that talent.”
The grade six St Kevin’s Primary School student started at Hampton Park United before progressing to Monash City, and his developing talent now sees him heading to Brisbane for the School Sport Australia Soccer Exchange in September.
“I was a bit surprised to make it because there were a lot of good players there,” Jonathan, who is of South American heritage, said.
“I’m happy that I’m going to be able to play for Victoria and I’ll be trying to play well.”
The central midfielder had to survive four strenuous trials ranging from Pakenham to Darebin, but managed to take it all in his stride.
Jonathan’s schedule will not be getting any easier leading into the tournament either, with extra time on the pitch locked in.
“If the Victorian team has two training sessions in a week, I don’t think I will be able to go to my club one, but it should be okay,” he said.
