Many of the nominees sound highly talented with MANY impressive credentials.... but wouldn't the scholarship be better utilised by giving someone NOT ALREADY well known (but also highly talented) and not already in a position to be easily scouted a shot to impress?!?!
If the nominees are already playing for district and NZ rep teams and the likes, then they already have every opportunity to showcase their skills to eager and watchful eyes.
For instance I understand that Sam Rausch (Upper Hutt FC) was last year recognised and offered a half Scholarship to a University in the US for his football talents, but his family could not afford the large costs associated and therefore he was unable to follow his dream. He was also given a trial for the NZ under 19's, but was unable to perform to his usual standard on the day as I'm sure has happened to many others (where are they now?)
This scholarship could do someone like Sam absolute wonders, give him an opportunity to be in a position where he can be rightfully recognised and rewarded for his talents and hard work, instead of giving someone who already has the world at their feet ANOTHER advantage over all those unknown, committed, passionate, budding talents with noone watching for when they blossom!!!?
Just my thoughts :o)
SAM RAUSCH has not yet trained with the Phoenix. Couldn't agree more that it would be nice for this prize to go to a nominee who hasnt already done so!
As I implied above, this prize, this opportunity, is effectively so much BIGGER and MORE IMPORTANT/VITAL to someone like Sam, rather than the other nominees already in positions to impress. Because if some of them are as talented as their credentials lead me to believe, then good for them, they will make it anyway (and if they dont, then they've already had a much bigger shot at it/far greater opportunity to do so than so many others!!!).
There is so much passion and hidden talent out there that never gets its turn to shine. In reality, when a professional FC seeks new talent.....one of the first places they could/should look, are National/Regional Youth Reps. If these youths are not offered trials from these positions of esteem, then how on earth are those like Sam supposed to get a break? :o)