Help Billy Represent New Zealand at the U10 Youth World Challenge Cup – New York 2026

Our son Billy has been given an incredible opportunity — he has been selected by Ricki Herbert’s Football Academy (RH3) to represent New Zealand at the U10 Youth World Challenge Cup in New York in July 2026.

The tournament will bring together teams from 48 countries, hosted at Stony Brook University from 20–29 July 2026. It is a rare chance for a young footballer to compete on a global stage.

Billy is 9 years old, and football is his passion. He trains hard, loves the game, and approaches it with focus and commitment. Being selected by Ricki Herbert’s Academy is a huge honour and reflects his dedication and resilience.

At home, Billy’s life has been shaped by his older sister Daisy, who has complex additional needs and requires 24‑hour care. This has meant family travel and opportunities often need to be carefully managed, with one parent staying home. Billy has grown up understanding this reality and has developed patience and empathy as a result.

Because of this, Billy is not your typical 9‑year‑old. Football has been his space — a place where he can simply be a kid, work hard, and dream big.

This tour represents something incredibly special for Billy. It is not just about football — it is about being seen, being chosen, and having an opportunity that is truly his.

We are fundraising to help make this opportunity possible. Any contribution will help Billy represent New Zealand with pride. Sharing this page also means a great deal.

Thank you for supporting our family.