Three young boys got to meet some of their football heroes last month when they were selected to walk on to the pitch with players from Wellington Phoenix and the New Zealand A squad, who were playing at Yarrow Stadium.
Ben Parrett, Jack Gavin and Rhykey Coles were all delighted to not only watch the game, but to stand on the field with their idols before the game started.
Ben and Rhyley say they were hoping to see Wellington Phoenix win but agree the end result (2-1 to New Zealand A) still made for great watching.
The two boys also agree on their favourite player; Alex Rufer from Wellington Phoenix. Ben says he likes watching Alex play, while Rhyley says Alex scores lots of goals and "is a really good player". On the day, Ben got to walk out with Alex, while Rhyley was chosen to walk out with Matthew Ridenton, who he says is also a good player.
Jack prefers watching Michael McGlinchey play, and was thrilled to walk out with his favourite player on the day. Jack, who plays centre back, has played soccer for six years, saying he loves "everything" about the sport.
Rhyley, who normally plays striker or midfield, has played "as soon as he could" since he was four years old, and says the sport appeals to him because of all the skills and tricks that can be mastered.
Ben says he loves the sport, which he has played for four years, because it is something which is a lot of fun. Normally a striker, Ben has scored an impressive 20 goals this season.
All three boys says the day was something they will never forget and it has inspired them to keep playing the sport.