Game against Beckham an ‘honour’ for Surf Coast soccer star Leijer

ERIN PEARSON
HE may spend his leisure time rubbing shoulders with soccer superstar David Beckham but Melbourne Victory captain Adrian Leijer still calls himself a Jan Juc boy.
The 25-year-old defender told the Independent this week about his excitement at taking to the field against the LA Galaxy megastar in an exhibition match at Etihad Stadium.
Leijer hoped Beckham’s visit would spur more children on to playing soccer.
“It was quite exciting because he’s someone who people all around the world know. Having him on our doorstep and playing against him was an honour,” Leijer said.
“I’m a Manchester United fan and have been my whole life, so I’ve grown up watching David play and now I’m on the same path.”
Leijer moved to Jan Juc as a teenager, attending Belmont High School before joining A-league team Melbourne Victory.
“Growing up I had all these aspirations but it’s more difficult for kids in the country to make that break, particularly in our game because it’s more a city-orientated sport. You’ve just got to work very hard at it.”
Surf Coast Football Club president Joe Taylor said the club’s 350 members were “extremely proud” of their patron.
“We hope that one day when he’s finished his career with Melbourne Victory he’ll come down and put on the Surf Coast guernsey.”