THIRTEEN-year-old Tari Klisaris has been selected to represent Australia in a four-team junior soccer tournament in Brazil later this month.
Klisaris, who played with the Oakleigh Cannons, was included in the under-14 Australian Football Skool team for a tournament and special training camp in Rio de Janeiro.
AFS technical director Wael Gharzeddine said Klisaris was selected because of his brilliant ball skills.
"He knows the game. He's a good team player who is always positive and encouraging to his teammates."
The Aussies will play against two local teams, including Atletico Mineiro. While on tour, Klisaris will receive special training from Brazilian Football Federation staff, and train alongside Brazilian players as they prepare to take on the world at the under-20 FIFA World Cup.
Klisaris took up soccer at five and said he enjoyed the fast-paced nature of the game.
"You have to think on your feet and try to outsmart your opponents. I just try and focus on what the coach has told me and putting it into practice. I also enjoy it because you get to play the game with your friends and teammates."
Klisaris gets up before dawn six days a week to train with a private coach.
He hopes to become a professional player and represent Australia in the A-league.
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