ONE of Tamworth's most exciting junior soccer stars is set to strut his stuff against some of the world's best in Japan later this year.
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Brayden Boonstra will take on team's from powerhouse soccer countries such as Argentina, Germany and South Korea as a part of the under-14 Tokyo Youth International Tournament.
The 13-year-old McCarthy Catholic College student said he was honoured by his selection in the squad and is looking forward to the challenge.
"There is going to be some really talented players there and I am really keen to show everyone what I can do," Boonstra said.
"I know I am really going to have to step my game up a level to do well but I am really looking forward to it."
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The Tamworth FC player believes speed will be key to his performance during the tournament.
"One thing I am really working on is my speed from receiving the ball and passing it," he said.
"All of guys are going to be very quick and if I don't learn to get the ball off quicker I will probably end up with a broken leg."
Following the May 1-7 tournament, Boonstra will turn his attention to "cracking into a premier league club" and earning higher representative honours.
"Hopefully a strong performance in Tokyo might catch the attention of some of the premier league coaches in Newcastle," he said.
"So I will be doing everything I can to perform well while I am over there and do what I can to help the team succeed."
The Northern Inland Football representative credited his coaches and his family for his selection in the team.
"I'm really looking forward to the tournament and can't thank my parents and coaches enough for their help," he said.
"I have been very lucky to have their support and I'll be working hard to make them all proud."