ALTONA Magic excitement machine Melvin Becket has landed an American sports scholarship with McKendree University.
The attacking midfielder will have the chance to mix his academic and soccer ambitions in Illinois for the next four years.
“It’s very exciting,” Becket told the Weekly. “One of the main reasons why I’m doing it is not only because I want to play soccer, but there will be something to fall back on if everything doesn’t work out.”
Doors could open professionally for the Sunshine resident, with Becket’s progress to be closely monitored by Major League Soccer club Chicago Fire.
“It’s a really good thing that not only am I playing with the college, but I’m in the eyes of the clubs as well,” he said.
Becket has been a revelation for the Magic in Football Federation Victoria’s state league 1.
The former Melbourne Victory youth player was crying out for an opportunity after returning from overseas and the Magic saw a youngster with a bright future.
Becket has paid the Magic back handsomely with his exquisite dribbling, fast feet and new-found eye for goal.
“I play a lot of positions – defensive mid, attacking mid, winger, but right now I prefer attacking mid,” he said.
“I’ve been practising a lot on my scoring. My shooting is really strong this year so I’m glad about that.”
Becket has lived in Australia for the past six years.
He moved here from Liberia in his early teens and has grasped his opportunities with both hands.
The move to the US will not come without its pitfalls, with Becket having to leave his close-knit family.
“It’s not going to be easy moving away from the family,” he said.
“At the end of the day, you’ve got to make your move – everyone has got their lives to prepare for.
“If that’s my destiny, it will come through; if not, I’ve always got my family to come back to, which is a good thing.”
The Magic’s Facebook page says the ‘‘sky is the limit’’ for Becket.
But he has set more modest goals.
“Right now, it’s about taking it one step at a time.
“I’m always looking to learn and I believe that’s one of my main strengths.
“I’m never turning down information and I always want to take new information from coaches.
“Whatever happens, I’ll be grateful for the opportunity.
‘‘If it’s good, great; if it’s bad, I’ll learn from it.”
