Young Roar's Sawyer Praises Pathway
Words: Michael Flynn
Image: Albert Perez/Football Queensland
Brisbane Roar Youth recruit Harrison Sawyer says his chance to shine in the Foxtel National Youth League is a result of opportunities found in PlayStation® 4 NPL Queensland.
The 19-year-old Western Pride product was one of three PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland senior men’s players included by new Young Roar coach Josh McCloughan for this summer’s Foxtel National Youth League campaign.
Previously with Brisbane Premier League club Peninsula Power, the towering striker topped Pride’s scoring charts in PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland last season with seven goals in 21 appearances.
He is adamant that the catalyst for his break-out year - which included selection to the PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland Under 23 All-Stars team - was the faith shown by Pride coaches Karl Dodd and Graham Harvey through the season.
“When Karl took me on at the start I was just sort of biding my time and hoping for the best, but he really got the best out of all the boys in the team including myself,” Sawyer explained.
“Fortunately for me I put a few good performances together and built on confidence and it’s just gone on from there. A lot of hard work this year has paid off.”
Sawyer explained that he was invited to start training with Roar after his showing in the All-Stars match against Roar’s Hyundai A-League stars.
He was unequivocal that PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland’s emphasis as a pathway for young talent is providing opportunities long sought in competition’s below the national top tier.
“The NPL really supports a lot of young players and there’s a lot of good media and publicity in the NPL compared to the other leagues,” he explained.
“It’s quite professional and there’s always going to be people watching. You know that if you’re doing the right things then the opportunities will come around,” he concluded.
However, he is conscious that plenty more toil remains ahead if he is to continue his career advancement to the fully professional level.
“Josh McCloughan knows exactly what he wants from all the players and doesn’t let the standard slip,” he said.
“My aim is to keep on improving and hopefully one day get a call-up to the senior squad - I want to be at the top of the chain and I just have to work hard until I get there.”
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