VANDYKE Upper School student Michael Heathcote is hoping to help England to footballing victory at the Disabled World Championships in Argentina in October.
Michael, who turns 16 this week, is a centre forward in the England Disabled Football Squad and, if he is selected, could then find himself representing Great Britain at the next paraolympics in Athens in October 2004.
Michael, of Russell Way, Leighton, played his first game for England at England's training facility, Lilleshall, a couple of months ago when they lost to Ireland.
He suffers from cerebral palsy and is studying for his GCSEs at Vandyke Upper School.
"I've played and enjoyed football for as long as I can remember," said the youngster who supports Manchester United.
Michael's dream to play for England started to become true late last year when he met one of the England players and they suggested he go for a trial.
He did well and was selected to join the squad. He hasn't looked back since and is hoping for glory in October.
the Leighton Buzzard Observer |
