Grassroots to Greatness: Sponsor Harry’s UK Academy Goal

Follow my journey - https://www.facebook.com/HarryBessellfootball

Hi, my name is Harry Bessell,

I am 15 years old and have one goal in life to play professional football at the highest level, to play for a European club or a team in the English Football Pyramid. It’s a long road ahead and I know how tough it will be, I know what dedication it will take, and I know I am like thousands of kids around the world all chasing the same dream.

But this year I took one big step forward on my journey. After interviews, trials and a full medical assessment I was offered a place in The Sunshine Coast FC International Academy.

This is huge, a massive decision for me to leave home, live in the UK 10,000 miles away to follow my dream…. but my answer was of course YES 1000%. I will continue my studies via distance education with a QLD school whilst having 20+ hours a week soccer training, skills, technical development and compete in the Junior Premier league 2025/26 season.

Of course, this all comes at a cost and so I want to help Mum and Dad with some fundraising. If you are able, I would really appreciate a small contribution, donation or indeed a sponsorship to help make this dream become a reality.

I won’t forget you when I become pro.

Thanks, Harry

Hi, my name is Karen Bessell, and I am the proud mother of Harry, and I thought it was important for me to give you some background on Harry’s journey.

Harry had a tough couple of years like many teens who experience bumps along the way. Looking back now, the strength of character he displayed has become part of his brand on and off the pitch. He demonstrates tenacity, resilience and a fighting spirit that is admirable. Last year he did not miss a single training session or league match and was always, prepared, focused and ready to give 100%. This awarded him Player of the year for the second year in a row.

We took drastic action after watching Harry’s self-esteem being eroded and he moved high schools in Grade 9. He trialed and was accepted at Albany Creek State school on the soccer excellence program and finding his tribe gave Harry the support to grow into the remarkable, determined young man he is today.

Harry is an attacking midfielder - a tenacious, dedicated and committed soccer player. His love for the sport is both on and off the field. He has been a qualified Junior Referee for the last 3 seasons. His determination and defiance are without doubt an asset to his game, battling hard, staying engaged and committed to every challenge. His work ethic on the pitch is unrivalled, displaying physical and mental strength with every game.

Let me also provide some background on The Sunshine Coast FC Soccer Academy:

The Sunshine Coast FC elite soccer academy (Fire) is the only full-time academy in Australia and aims to be a feeder for talented Australian youth players into UK development football clubs. Technical Director, Melvyn Wilkes, English, ex footy player, 20 years as a youth coach at clubs such as Manchester City, Nottingham Forest, West Bromwich Albion and a licensed coach educator for the FA heads up the academy.

In 2025 they are opening a full-time “sister” academy in Shropshire, England. Through the program, players receive 16+ hours per week of high intensity soccer training, combined with fully funded private schooling. As well as a full-time sports science program that offers the likes of thermo imaging of muscles on a weekly basis, HR variability testing, GPS player tracking and game play.

The Sunshine Coast FC International has been accepted as a NEW club in the Junior Premier League and will start from August 2025. They are renovating a former residential home in the market town of Bishops Castle, near Shrewsbury. This will be the home for 35-40 boys aged 15-19, to live and study for 10 months. The education will be delivered via distance learning through Peregian Beach College, QLD and supported by Bishops Castle Community College who will partner to allow the students to use the Gym, 4G pitches and sporting facilities.

https://sunshinecoastfc.com.au

So back to Harry….

After reviewing his player profile and a video interview Harry was invited to attend a trial at the end of November 2024. It was a huge day, starting at 7am where Harry was physically assessed, measured, monitored, tested and analysed. Followed by a gym session, technical skills assessment and game play Harry was offered one of the final remaining places to start next August 2025, boarding and studying at the new Sunshine Coast International Soccer Academy in the UK.

We are so proud of Harry and his determination to play soccer at the highest level possible as a parent you say “Yes” then work out the how….am I right?

The old proverb says "It takes a village to raise a child" .….so we are humbling asking for your support. The total cost of this adventure for Harry, excluding flights, is $45,000 AUD. We are hopeful to raise as much as possible to help Harry’s on his path to making his dream come true, any contribution, no matter the size, will make a significant difference.

Of course, you could be in a position as a business or philanthropist to sponsor Harry then please let us know.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read Harry’s story and for any contribution you make.

Karen & David Bessell.

Brisbane Australia.

#thejourneybegins

Here some highlights of his football journey so far:

Thank you to my Player Sponsors:

U Create Art Studio - https://www.ucreateart.com.au

Think Aesthetics Cosmetics - https://thinkaesthetics.com.au

Studio 38 Club Australia - https://studio38.club/australia

The Gap Dental Practice - https://www.gapdental.com.au

Empire Barbering co - https://www.empirebarberingco.com.au

Colin Bushell Photography - https://colinbushellphotography.au

Thanks also to the following local business that have supported me with Raffle donations: