JUNIOR SPORT LIFTOUT INSIDE
ISAIAH SETS SIGHT ON THE WORLD
FC Leopold is only three years old but has already produced a potential future star.
Isaiah Lona seems destined for higher honours following his selection for the Euro Football Star UK Tour.
Lona, 10, will be given the opportunity of a lifetime when he travels to the UK later this year as part of the elite squad.
The tour gives young Australian footballers an insight into the life of a professional career.
Lona was picked following a trial in Geelong, when he was identified as a talented prospect.
FC Leopold junior coach Nick Hoggarth said Lona had a bright future in the sport.
“He’s a player that’s always stood out and developed year on year,” Hoggarth said.
“Going back to three years ago when the club started and he started with us, he was already a standout then.”
Lona was one of just 36 players picked from around the country to take part in the 2020 tour, which will include tours of Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United over three weeks in September and October.
Players will also be mentored by UEFA accredited coaches and attend EPL and champions league games.
Hoggarth said the tour would provide Lona with invaluable learning experiences.
“We do the best we can locally … but this is next level,” he said.
“That exposure, it’s probably next level from what you can potentially get in Australia.
“It’s not something that comes around often and my understanding is the numbers are limited.
“It’s a pretty special opportunity.”
Hoggarth said Lona, who has found his place as an attacking midfielder, was a unique talent.
“You’ve got kids with speed and you’ve got kids that can dribble but kids who can do both at the same time are fairly rare,” he said.
“He’s probably got a career in the sport but how far is up to him. Going forward, if everything works out … he’s going to need to be at a higher level.”