By: April Yan

After catching the eyes of the English Premier League Academy scout, Sydney girl Michaela Togias was permitted to fly to the UK to perform her football skills in front of the world.

When she travels to Manchester in January, Michaela, age 10, will participate in an event where she competes against some of the largest leagues.

The Manchester United and Manchester City scouts had already watched her at the Global Football Network showcase in Sydney in April, which included seven hours of training over two days.

Participants aged 10 to 19 came together to display their skills in the hope of being given a sporting scholarship.

“There were 60 girls at the showcase, and I was a little nervous because I was the youngest and smallest there, but I just gave it my all and had fun,” Michaela had said to KidsNews. “At the end of the showcase the scouts asked to speak to my mum and told her that I have what it takes to play in the UK.”

“Hearing that from them put a big smile on my face,” she said.

Michaela, a huge Tottenham Hotspurs admirer, follows the English Premier League from abroad and has always dreamed of playing in it.

She hopes one day she will wear the green and gold uniform, representing her country as a Matilda and looking up to Sam Kerr and England Captain Harry Kane.

“To think that in a few months I’ll be playing in the UK is like a dream come true,” Michaela said. “I hope to one day make my country proud, just like Sam Kerr and Ellie Carpenter. I have great coaches who push me to play at my best. I train hard daily and put my all into every training session and game.”

She also added that she was so thankful for the help of her family and friends, showcase organizers Global Football Network, her coaches at Macarthur Rams, Futboltec, and her sprint coach, Australian Olympian Hayley Butler.

The Director of Global Football Network Manchester UK, John Pladas, says that Michaela was excellent over the two days the footballers showcased themselves in Sydney.

“Michaela took in all the information provided by our EPL scouts Andy and Luke and although she was one of the youngest trialists, her maturity, attitude, and ability certainly stood out,” he said. “I am looking forward to having Michaela over in Manchester in January, working with our coaches, playing many games against some of the best players, and experience what pro-players experience during her stay. Her selection for the scholarship is well earned and deserved.”

Michaela’s Sprint coach and Australian Olympian Hayley Butler said she did not doubt that this was just the beginning of an incredible career for Michaela.

“She always gives 100 percent effort during our speed sessions and at such a young age demonstrates so much talent and determination,” Butler said. For more information, go to

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