Talented defensive trio, Bailey O’Neil, Panagiotis Kikianis, and Giuseppe Bovalina have penned their first deals, securing scholarship contracts with Adelaide United Football Club.
All three have been consistent performers for the Young Reds in the RAA NPL SA, simultaneously catching the eyes of Australia’s youth selectors.
O’Neil (left-back) was selected for the AFC U17 Asian Cup Thailand 2023, featuring heavily in the tournament as a key player for the Joeys.
Kikianis (centre-back) was recently called into Australia’s U18 four nations tournament in Portugal.
Bovalina (right-back) started and played a full game in United’s Round of 32 Australia Cup clash against Northcote City FC, looking right at home amongst Adelaide’s elite.
O’Neil was also selected in the side that travelled to Victoria for the Cup tie.
Head Coach, Carl Veart said: “Pana, Bailey and Giuseppe have showed a tremendous amount of progress and leadership through the NPL competition which is what we ask of our young players coming through.
“They have impressed our Youth Head Coach, Airton (Andrioli), and have shown their quality in training with the full squad and in the Australia Cup so far this pre-season, warranting their scholarship contracts.
“We look forward to what will hopefully be long and successful careers at Adelaide United.”
Giuseppe Bovalina’s pathway to Adelaide United:
- Western Strikers SC (Under 6s – _Under 8s)
- Croydon FC (Under 9s – _Under 12s)
- Football SA NTC program (Under 13s – _Under 18s)
- Adelaide United Youth (Reserves/seniors)
Panagiotis Kikianis’ pathway to Adelaide United:
- Fulham United FC (Under 7s – _Under 10s)
- West Adelaide SC (Under 11s – _under 12s)
- Football SA NTC Program (Under 13s – _Under 18s)
- Adelaide United Youth (Reserves/Seniors)
Bailey O’Neil’s pathway to Adelaide United:
- Western Strikers SC (Under 8s)
- Croydon FC (Under 9s)
- Fulham United FC (Under 10s – _Under 12s)
- Football SA NTC Program (Under 13s – _Under 18s)
- Adelaide United Youth (Reserves/Seniors)
