S. Adhithiyan, of the First Kick School of Soccer, is jubilant on his team emerging victorious at the 5-A-Side Inter-state soccer tournament for under-12 category, which was held at Hyderabad a few weeks ago. He was also named the best goalkeeper title.

Adhithiyan, is a student of Class VI at the Indian Public School at Coimbatore. The 12-year-old has been playing soccer for the past three years and has won more than five Best Goalkeeper Awards at various soccer tournaments at national and international level. The youngster, who made Coimbatore proud, told Covai Post that he needs to improve his game to emerge as the best goalkeeper.

Adhithiyan’s all time favourite and inspiration is Iker Casillas, the Spanish player. “I’m a big fan of the Spanish league. Real Madrid is my favourite team in the league,” he said.

When asked about his experience, he said, “I was nervous in the first match, but later got used to it. My team-mates and I worked hard and we emerged winners.”

About parental support, he said, “My parents are helping me a lot. They had been the backbone of my football career. Nothing can be achieved without the coaches and my teammates. They supported and encouraged me all through my career. And I dedicate this award to my parents, coaches, and my teammates.”

“Hard work, perseverance, and his sportsmanship helped him to achieve this. He has developed his skills and goalkeeping technique from the day he joined the soccer school. We are proud to produce such young talents for the district,” says C.J. Vignesh, one of the coaches.

“I’m happy with the way he is playing. We are blessed to have a child like him. He made us really proud by winning such prestigious award. We wish him to continue the same forever. Finally, I thank all the coaching staff of First Kick School of Soccer for helping my son to achieve this,” said S. Subha, the kid’s mom.