“It will be an honour to play for New Zealand” Ethiopian born Birhanu Taye

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Refugee scores pro deal after academy grounding

Birhanu Taye may well grow up to become a famous footballer.

But, whatever happens on the pitch from here, the teenager’s life story is already an inspiration.

Born in Ethiopia, Taye lost his mother early, while father Adane worked away from home.

Taye and his older sister Yeshi lived with other relatives but life was a struggle and school wasn’t an option.

The football-mad youngster was transplanted to Sudan where as a 10-year-old he cleaned shoes and washed cars to provide for himself and younger sister Endalew.

At 13, Taye was moved again, this time to New Zealand as a refugee.

He was reunited with his sisters in Wellington before being taken in by Patricia Dimairho, who had herself moved from Zimbabwe to build a better life.

Taye’s football flourished.

Island Bay United, St Pat’s Town and Ole Football Academy all played their part, before he earned a scholarship with the Christchurch-based Asia Pacific Football Academy this year.

Taye played as a striker for Coastal Spirit in the Mainland premier league.

Then the big break – a successful trial to land a spot in the senior youth programme at top Portugese club SC Braga.

A Kiwi passport holder and versatile midfielder, Taye dreams of one day playing for the All Whites.

“It was very difficult, I cleaned shoes and washed cars to provide for me and my younger sister,” Taye said from Braga.

“The move to Asia Pacific Academy was very important to me, they have developed me into the player and person I am.

“I have learnt a lot starting with developing my football skills in every area and also my schooling side. Life at Braga has been great so far … I’m playing for the under-19 team and I will be working hard to progress further.

“I do get homesick sometimes … To be honest I wouldn’t be where I am if I didn’t come to New Zealand, so it will be an honour to play for New Zealand … I love football and that’s what I want to do.”

Andy Smith is the managing director at APFA.

He first saw Taye play in 2011 and rates him highly on and off the park.

“He’s very quick and he’s two-footed,” Smith said.

“He’s very athletic so you can play him in multiple positions. He’s incredibly motivated, he’s a really nice kid.

“When you’ve been cleaning shoes to look after your family you’re not worried about going overseas to a foreign country and fitting in.

“I mean that’s the sort of challenge you readily accept. His attitude is great, the coaches love him and he doesn’t complain about anything.”