EMERGING south-west soccer star Benjy Hawkins will get a chance to test himself on an international stage after being selected in the Australian under 16 Futsal Team.
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The 15-year-old Port Fairy resident scored his national side selection after a strong showing at last week's Football Federation Australia (FFA) National Futsal Championships in Sydney.
Hawkins, who helped Vic Country to a fifth-place finish at the annual tournament, will travel to Greece in October to represent Australia in a tour of the European country.
The tour will be based in Athens and feature games against Greek teams. It also includes a trip to watch a Super League One (Greek national club competition) match.
Hawkins, who is working at Rebecca's Cafe to earn money for his trip, said he was excited to find out his selection from Victorian coaches on the team bus home.
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The Emmanuel College year 10 student said he is taking up boxing to improve his footwork and fitness ahead of the 15-day tour.
"One of my dad's (Mark) friends gave us a boxing bag so I thought it might be a good way to try and help my footwork," he said.
"It's good for quick feet and moving around and helping me be light on my feet. It's also good for my strength and fitness."
Hawkins, a flanker on the futsal court, will turn his attention back to club soccer where he plays for Ballarat City in the National Premier League.
The midfielder said he would continue to improve his all-round game ahead of the tour.
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