TWELVE-year-old Patterson Lakes soccer prodigy Omar Ammache has made history by becoming the first Australian his age to secure a place with a world-renowned Brazilian team.
The determined young gun has snagged a three-year scholarship with Clube Atletico Mineiro after successfully completing a three-month trial.
The talented youngster didn't just edge out hundreds of other young hopefuls, he charged into the under-13 team's first 11.
Arriving back in Australia for the first time this week since being given the news of a lifetime, Omar said he still couldn't believe his dreams were coming true.
"It's amazing for me that I'm going to (Clube Atletico) Mineiro," he said.
"My family is very proud."
The Haileybury College student's remarkable journey began when he travelled to South America in September with a squad from private soccer academy The Australian Football Skool.
His father, Nidal, paid tribute to his son's extraordinary efforts.
"Every month they trial 100 kids and they only select 30," Mr Ammache said.
"Omar actually made the starting 11, which is very good for Australia, isn't it?"
Mr Ammache said his son took everything the Brazilians could throw at him.
"He's played games and scored goals, and they've played him everywhere on the field from right half-back to striker and he performed really very well."
Omar reserved special praise for Amir, who provided vital support. "He really helped me cope with everything," he said.
Omar, who is continuing his Victorian school studies via the internet, will get to come home for one month a year at the end of each season.
He will leave again for Brazil in a few weeks, following the World Cup, possibly accompanied by his proud dad, who is keen to see him in action.
While he will miss his family and friends, Omar said he was excited about what the future held on the soccer field in South America.
"It's my dream."
