By Violet Li
Berwick City Soccer Club player Savo Leone has lived and breathed soccer since he was two years old and now trains at the sports fields at Tulliallan Estate in Cranbourne North every day – rain, hail or shine.
He has taken one step closer to his calling, after being selected as part of the Berwick City Under-16 team travelling to Singapore to compete in the SingaCup, Asia’s premier international youth football tournament running from Saturday 4 November to Saturday 11 November.
Berwick City Soccer Club has selected a squad of 17 players aged between 13 and 15 for the tournament.
Savo’s Mum Florence has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for the trip, with more than $2000 raised so far towards the $10,000 goal.
The Year 9 Alkira Secondary College student has overcome a number of obstacles to realising his dreams, including suffering from necrosis in the bones of his left foot for two years and relearning how to walk.
“I just love the sport,” he said.
“It just makes me happy.”
Savo said he was looking forward to playing on an international stage at a year higher than his current level and was hopeful scouts would see his skills.
“I’m really excited to go,” he said.
“I can’t wait for it.”
Florence said she was “so grateful” for the support Savo has already received, including from the Western United Football Club and the broader Casey soccer community.
“I am super proud of my son,” she said.
“As a mother looking after three kids on my own, I am doing everything possible to make Savo’s dreams come true.”
Savo said he was excited to leave Australia for the first time.
“I hope we win the whole thing,” he said.
“I hope we go and do proud for us.”
Florence said any further support was welcome before 4 November, including potential sponsorship opportunities or any further donations.
To support Savo’s trip, visit gofundme.com/f/savos-soccer-dream-coming-true
