Wellington Phoenix Academy U-20 side have finished their ISPS Handa Premiership season on a high after they defeated Hawke’s Bay United, 3-1, in a fantastic game at Porirua Park.
Following the recent successes of Academy graduates Sarpreet Singh, Liberato Cacace and Gianni Stensness, the Academy are about to see a couple of their players move to America to pursue scholarships.
Boyd Curry, 18, has been integral to the Premiership side, playing in an ever-changing backline with the ability to drive into midfield to link the play. He has made 12 appearances throughout the season, scoring two goals in the process. Curry will be heading to St Mary’s College in California.
Kieran Richards, 18, had been given the task of patrolling the midfield in the Premiership side, making eight appearances and scoring twice. Richards will pursue a scholarship at East Tennessee State University.
Both players follow in the footsteps of previous Academy graduates, Joe Bell, Sam Philip & Ben Mata in making the progression on to USA scholarships.
Paul Temple spoke of their opportunity to progress in another country.
“Boyd & Kieran have been a pleasure to have in the Wellington Phoenix Academy and have performed well over the ISPS Handa Premiership 2018/19 season.
”They have a lot of potential as footballers but are also fantastic young men, and they both have great opportunities to further their careers in the US College system and gain further qualifications.
”We wish them all the very best for their next chapters.” Temple said.
Dino Botica has also departed the Academy after a recurring back injury which kept him out of the entire Summer season. Botica will now return to Auckland for surgery and rehabilitation. We wish him the best with his future endeavours.
