Col’s Chat – Locals through my Lens – Harry Bessell

Col’s Chat –

Locals through my Lens

Harry Bessell

Before I begin any sort of conversation with Harry Bessell, I am compelled (as is necessary of anyone with British heritage) to ask; ‘Is it football or soccer?’ 

The answer will determine the approach I take. One being, ‘Of course it is. That’s why it’s called The Gap Football Club. That’s because it’s played with the foot. That’s because it just is.’ The other answer would result in the entire chat being interspersed with a series of ‘tut-tuts’ and statements to the effect of, ‘You’d better change that approach when you’re in England’.  

Harry answers, ‘Football, of course!’ 

All is good. We can continue.  

Harry Bessell is 15 and he has very real ambitions to play in the English Premier League. “It’s a dream, but with my incredibly supportive family, we are doing everything we can to make it a reality.” 

Even at 15, the local footballer has demonstrated passion and talent beyond his years. An ex-Gap High School student and Gap Football Club Player, Harry has been selected after interview and trial, to join the Sunshine Coast FC Football Academy.  

“It’s a significant step towards my ultimate goal. I’m just about to move to Peregian Springs for two terms, before moving to the UK with their new International Football Academy and start playing in the Junior Premier League in August this year.” 

I speak from experience when I say that raw sporting talent is never enough for any athlete. It needs to be combined with dedication, commitment and enthusiasm. All of which will overcome those ups and downs that are sure to come. I can tell straight away that Harry is in for the long haul.   

“This is an incredibly exciting opportunity for me. Previously I have represented Australia on a UK tour in 2023 and been invited to a UK Camp with West Ham International.” 

The International Soccer Academy is run by Sports Director, Melvyn Wilkes, ex professional (with Manchester City) and UEFA / Football Association coach, assisted with a great line up of coaches (all ex-players) coming to the UK with the boys. He will continue his schooling via distance learning with one tutor going with 40 other young men. 

“My focus and aspirations are to play in the UK football pyramid as a pro soccer player”. I ask him who – if he had his own choice, he would choose to play for? “I’d have to say, Manchester United”. It’s at this point that the chat turns a little sour. I have to remain professional despite a series of palpitations at the sound of those words. “Surely, Chelsea would be the way to go”, I add. “I went to the Old Trafford to see United play Chelsea. We beat you.”  

The conversation has started to go off the rails now. “Of course,” he says. “I’d be happy with anyone who would be willing to take a chance on me.” It’s a nice recovery, and indicative of this intelligent, driven but humble young man who sits with me.  

The costs of Harry’s footballing pilgrimage are significant, and his family are engaged in a raft of fundraising initiatives with local people and business. “So far,” Harry adds. “The support has been absolutely amazing. I am so very grateful for even the smallest gesture that helps me fulfil my ambitions.” 

If you’d like to see Harry playing in The English Premier League in the next few years (hopefully for Chelsea!), then you can support his journey at Grassroots to Greatness. 

Author and photographer: Colin Bushell / Colin Bushell Photography