Dakota admits he started playing soccer later than most of his friends, only getting involved in the game from under-nines.
Nine years on from starting to play, Dakota is still as hooked on the game as he was from a young age.
“I cherish the game because there’s no boundaries to play it. You can be any size or any age to play it,” he shares.
“I also love the fact that the whole world plays it… it’s a beautiful game.”
The young talent has an ultimate goal of reaching the professional stakes, but before NSR, was unsure of the reality of fulfilling his dream.
“I was quickly losing hope of making it to high levels in soccer, but when I got the letter in the mail, my mind was blown,” he remembered.
“It’s another chance for me to play professionally, so it’s awesome,” he said.
Before the trial, Dakota admits he was “pretty nervous”, but also confident.
“I knew what I had to do – play my own game and I’d be alright,” he shared.
Dakota said he was “over-the-moon”after being offered an acceptance into the NSR program, and looks excitedly into what the future holds for him.
“I’m looking forward to competing in the college competition mostly, really embracing that and the different experience of being in a different country,” he said.
“Being abroad, really makes you stronger as a person so that’s what I’m really looking forward to.”
The young talent is also excited for the educational purpose of the program, and is interested in studying communications, sport management or marketing.
Sounds like you’re absolutely set, Dakota! Keep on kicking goals!