Young Ivory Park footballer Blessing Skhosana is experiencing an opportunity that many young players can only dream of, testing his talent on Spanish soil.

The 13-year-old Dulcie September learner arrived safely in Spain after departing from OR Tambo International Airport on September 25, for a two-week trial with Spanish club Levante UD.

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Dubula Stars United chairperson Sydwell Ramakokovhu confirmed that Blessing had settled in well. “He landed well. His happy experience of being in a plane,” said Ramakokovhu.

The coach said he had spoken to Blessing after his arrival and that the youngster was excited about his new surroundings, although the experience had also introduced him to challenges outside football.

“He shared pictures of landing and the facilities hosting them and his settling in okay, but the climate change, language barrier and the lifestyle are totally something new for a 13-year-old boy without family,” he said.

Blessing is expected to undergo scheduled training sessions before potentially playing a match alongside players based at the club. His performances during the trial could determine whether Levante UD makes a recommendation about his next steps.

The coach said he travelled with Michelle Craddock of Albion Football Club, which is in partnership with IAM360, the International Student and Athlete Management organisation hosting him during the trip.

For Blessing, the journey to Spain is the culmination of months of anticipation, hard work and sacrifices by his family and football club. The opportunity was first confirmed to him in January, when he learnt that he would have a chance to travel to Spain.

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“I was so excited and did not believe that I got this,” Blessing said before his departure. The youngster said his ambition extends beyond making a name for himself on the football field.

“I want to see myself representing my country, South Africa. My mom has supported me. Sometimes I would be down, but she encouraged me all the time. I would like to thank my coach, my mom and my brother,” he said.

Blessing has been turning heads since joining Dubula Stars, a club under the Truth and Hope Foundation. His versatility has been one of his strengths, with the youngster capable of playing as a right winger, left winger or striker.

His pace, stamina, ball control, distribution, decision-making and ability to protect the ball have helped him stand out, including when playing against older players.

However, getting Blessing to Spain required more than football ability. Ramakokovhu said the club approached potential sponsors for assistance but did not receive the support it had hoped for. Blessing’s mother, Ntombi Skhosana, eventually secured a loan to help finance her son’s trip.

“I’m proud, and without any doubt, his mom did everything. I’m proud to have such parents who sacrifice everything for their children. It really inspires me and many out there,” added Ramakokovhu.

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