A semi professional football player at IFS
He appears older than he really is. Large and chiselled. A fine little beard decorates his mischievous face. Hallam Yusuf. A 16 year old boy and for the moment, hailing all the way from England. From the town of Northampton, to be precise.
For 2.5 months, Hallam was allowed to enjoy a well-earned holiday in Australia. A gift from his parents for having finished college. A gift which will carry a much bigger impact on his football career than he would have expected….and….one which will have altered his view on Australia all together (with regards to football). During his stay in Australia, Hallam was given the opportunity to be a part of the group belonging to football coach, Joey Peters.
IFS Media spoke with Hallam who, by now, has returned to England.
Why would a 16-year old spend his entire holiday playing football?
“Football is my passion. And probably my only passion. I’ve always dreamt of turning it into my career. To become a professional football player. Pretty cool, right? Doing exactly what you enjoy and getting paid for it to boot. So that’s my goal; becoming a pro. Right now I’m a semi-pro in England. That means training during the day, and earning some money in the evenings”.
You’re a semi-pro now… what do you think you have to do to become a fulltime pro?
“Phew… that’s the million dollar question. A lot, I think. Maybe even 10 times as much as what I do now. And then I don’t just mean training, but the intensity of training as well. In fact, I’m convinced everything should go differently. My entire way of living should improve, should change. I’ll have to become stronger, too.”
During the time Hallam participated in training, he didn’t appear at the forefront as much in word and gesture. He seemed shy in the beginning, but whenever the ball rolled across the grassy turf, his passion for the game engulfed him. Good luck to whoever tries to stop him.
Were you surprised about the level of those within the group?
“I was. See… Australian football isn’t really known for its achievements. With that being said, the Socceroos really showcased themselves this past World Cup. What I’ve seen here surprised me positively, yes. The boys show great passion. And generally they have great technical skills. I think Australia just keeps on improving as a football nation. It’s also great that you get the opportunity to develop yourself as a footballer like this, and with this college. As a student as well. Honestly, an amazing combination!”
Kind words, and they are sincere as, in spite of describing himself as “a funny one”, the youngster has a serious view on the world as well. “I’m a mix of both – funny and serious,” he says with a naughty smile.
What has your time with IFS brought you?
“New friends, the words BP and BPO (BP = ball possession, BPO = ball possession opponent) and an even greater realisation that I want to accomplish my goal of becoming a professional football player.”
Hallum is clear. He is quick to add that the number 10 position carries his preference on the pitch and that his determination has a reason, namely, “I like the glory,” he stresses. He definitely had a whale of a time at the IFS. Concluding, he had a message for all those he met at this college.
“Do what you want to achieve and follow your dream.”
Who’s with him!
During the time Hallam participated in training, he didn’t appear at the forefront as much in word and gesture. He seemed shy in the beginning, but whenever the ball rolled across the grassy turf, his passion for the game engulfed him. Good luck to whoever tries to stop him.
Titus Draper says
I would like to play for your team