Cup pair have world at their feet

TWO Pakenham soccer players are packing their bags to play for Australia in Germany.

Michael Wright and Michael Barnett are part of a team of intellectually disabled players about to represent their country at the INASFID World Football Cup.

The two Michaels are making their second international trip, having both played in Sweden a few years ago.

Anne Wright said her son was counting down the days to next Thursday, when the team flies out for Germany, scene of the recent World Cup that captured the hearts of Australian supporters.

It is a dream come true for him, Mrs Wright said.

The road to Germany has been a hard one for the team and officials, who have had to raise $125,000 to achieve their World Cup dream.

Australian Sport and Recreation Association for Players with an Intellectual Disability (AUSRAPID) contributed a slice of the funds but players and their families had to scrimp and save for months.

Businesses have also supported the cause and donations are still being sought.

Coach Carlos Loyola said the players could not wait to pull on the green and gold and represent Australia.

These guys are so committed, he said.

They have had difficulties in their lives and to help fulfil the dream of a group of players who have worked so hard to represent their country is fantastic.

Michael Barnett, 18, said he was looking forward to the event which will see the Australians pitted against two giants of the sport in Holland and Saudi Arabia in their early matches.

Mrs Wright said her son, who just turned 17, had been into sports all his life and had watched the World Cup religiously on television.

Hes always lived for his sport, hes played cricket at Pakenham Upper and football for Pakenham, she said.

Mr Loyola said both Michaels were important cogs in the team of 15 players and three officials who will spend almost a month overseas.

Anybody wanting to donate to the Australian teams trip can contact the Gazette on 5941 2666.