Manly United FC POTW Q & A: Tom Parkes
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By Chris Curulli
Every week Manly United catch up with one player who wins their respective Man of the Match award to learn a little bit more about them.
This week, we chat to Tom Parkes from the U14 Boy’s Youth League side. The defender was awarded Bing Lee Player of the Match after he nodded home the opening goal and made some key defensive interventions in their tight 2-1 win over Sydney FC on the weekend.
How long have you been playing for Manly United?
I joined Manly United in the SAP U11s, so this is my fourth year with the club. Both of my brothers are also at Manly, playing in the SAP program.
Which clubs did you previously play for?
I started in the U6s with Brookvale Football Club, then moved to Beacon Hill from the U8s. I then played a year of SAP for Gladesville Ryde Magic in the U10s before moving to Manly United.
What position do you play? Have you always played there?
I currently play Centre Back, which is my favourite position as I love the feeling of making an important tackle for my team. I have also played full back and centre mid positions, which have helped my skill-set development as a player. Currently, I definitely prefer a more defensive role.
What is your favourite part about playing football?
Football has been a massive part of my life since I was about four years old, and I love everything about it. In particular, I enjoy playing with my friends, celebrating our goals and having the opportunity to play some of the best teams in NSW.
Which club do you support?
I support Liverpool FC, as does my dad who went to University there so he could go to the games. I visited Anfield a few years ago, and was lucky enough to go to the Liverpool v Sevilla UEFA final in Basel.
Who is your favourite player?
My favourite player of all-time is Andres Iniesta because of his creativity on the field. I also really like De Ligt, as I admire his leadership and his hard work.
Do you have a favourite football memory?
A football memory that stands out as my favourite was last year when my team and I got the opportunity to compete in a tournament in Sardinia and play against some of the best young teams in Europe, including AC Milan and Juventus.
Within or outside of football – what is your dream job when you grow up?
My dream job when I grow up is to become a professional football player, however my back-up plan is to go to university and study to become a lawyer.