Student Spotlight

Kai Martin-Shepherd

Kai Martin-Shepherd has been playing soccer about three years and his commitment to the sport has been paying dividends. He plays as goal keeper with the Launceston City Academy's Under-12 Team, which recently travelled to compete in the Shepparton Cup.

Kai received the 2024 LCFC Presidents Award, which saw him nominated by his club for the prestigious Tom Strickland Award. And he won!

"I was gobsmacked!" Kai said, thinking back to the presentation night at the Hotel Grand Chancellor, which honoured all the nominees from clubs in Northern Tasmania.

"I got a bit emotional and then pulled myself together. I had to give a speech, so I thanked my mum for driving me around everywhere, and my coaches who I look up to."

The Launceston City club was thrilled with their 12-year-old member's achievement:

"This award recognises Kai’s commitment and wonderful potential in the game – as a player, goalkeeper, referee, role model and all round great human! His speech and awareness of those around him was simply beautiful, and showed why he was nominated for the award."

The award included a trophy, medal and perpetual shield, as well as a $1,500 grant towards soccer-related travel.

Meanwhile, Kai has also made the Under-12 Futsal Football Tasmania state team, and will be competing interstate.

"I'd love to go pro, but we all do," Kai said of his soccer aspirations.

"I just want to always be involved in the sport in some way."

Well done Kai, we're absolutely thrilled to see you doing so well in an area you're passionate about.