Words: Michael Flynn
Image: Getty Images

FNQ Heat utility Ethan Docherty is the latest player to advance on the PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland pathway after joining Scottish Premiership club Partick Thistle.

The 18-year-old, who has been utilised in defence, midfield and attack for Heat, has joined the top tier Scottish side’s youth set-up on a one-year deal and has been a regular substitute for the Under 20 team in recent weeks.

Docherty is a product of the Far North Queensland Centre of Excellence and made 42 senior PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland appearances for Heat over the past three seasons.

Docherty’s former Heat coach, and father, Martin Docherty, said his son’s progression was an example of the benefits of the PlayStation 4 National Premier Leagues pathway in the state’s far north.

“It’s a total endorsement of what we have done in the far north in recent years because Ethan is a product of the original Centre of Excellence and came through the NPL program with the Heat.”

“It reinforces that what we are doing here is correct because he’s gone over to Scotland and shaped up well and signed on for a year - you have to be prepared in the right environment to be ready to make the most of these chances.”

“He hasn’t realised his dream yet, because he hasn’t signed a professional contract, but he’s realising that the work, the effort, the commitment and the sacrifices are starting to pay off,” he concluded.