George is an eight-year-old from Cambridge with a passion for football. His dad and 17-year-old brother both play, and he’s been kicking a ball around since he could walk.

He’s currently playing for a Grade 8 team at Cambridge FC. While he always gives it his all, he needs to rest more often than his teammates.

Born on Christmas Eve almost nine years ago with severe heart defects, George has undergone four open-heart surgeries and seven cardiac catheter procedures. There’s no “last surgery” in sight—he’ll need more as he grows, and parts of his heart wear out.

Earlier this year, George had his fourth surgery at Starship – a 12 hour open heart procedure. He had most of Term 1 off school, but recovered in time for football season to start.  

This year he made a wish with Make-A-Wish New Zealand: he wanted the All Whites to visit his school. His mum, Elaine, says that George’s wish isn’t just about meeting his heroes. He’s eager to share his love for football with everyone.

Bringing the All Whites to a Cambridge school isn’t simple. The team’s players are scattered across professional leagues around the world, with little time together in New Zealand for training or events.

Today, however, is a special day—the All Whites are in Hamilton for their first-ever match at FMG Waikato Stadium. New Zealand Football and Make-A-Wish NZ teamed up to make George’s wish come true. While the team couldn’t visit George’s school, they did the next best thing: George and five friends were invited to join the All Whites in Hamilton for their Match Day Minus One training.

 

George greets All White Tommy Smith as he enters the training pitch

 

George and his friends were picked up from his home in a limo, and driven to a central Hamilton training ground. They welcomed the players with high fives as they walked onto the pitch. All Whites Coach Darren Bazley took them through a warm up, and Chris Wood joined them for some passing practice.

George and his friends stayed to watch the All Whites train for an hour and a half, collecting signatures and selfies at the end of the training.

George said, “It was THE BEST DAY EVER”

All Whites Kosta Barbarouses and Tim Payne chatting on the sideline with George. Photo / NZ Football

About Make-A-Wish New Zealand

Make-A-Wish New Zealand grants Kiwi tamariki and rangatahi fighting critical illnesses their one true wish – bringing them hope, strength and joy. Since 1986, they have granted thousands of wishes with the support of partners, small businesses, over 200 volunteers, and generous donors.

Currently, over 300 Kiwi children are waiting for their wishes to be granted.

Though Make-A-Wish New Zealand is part of Make-A-Wish International, all funds raised in New Zealand stay within the country, directly supporting Kiwi children.

To make a donation, visit:  makeawish.nz

Article added: Friday 15 November 2024