FOCUS ON...
ANDY BEVIN

When I arrive at Napier airport to meet him, Andy Bevin has just flown back from Auckland, where he received some excellent news: he would definitely be representing New Zealand in the FIFA's Under 20's World Cup in Columbia. In fact, just a few weeks later, Andy scored New Zealand's first goal in the cup against Uruguay.

Now just nineteen, Andy was only four when he started playing at Park Island, to which he has remained faithful. His old team, Greendale, has now merged with the Napier City Rovers, contenders of the New Zealand Chatham Cup this year and to whom Andy is a strong asset.

A man of many talents, Andy also plays badminton, in which he represented Hawkes Bay until a few years ago. He then had to give it up so he could concentrate on his football training. In the summer however, he continues to play cricket with the Taradale team.
"Badminton is excellent for footwork and speed, explains Andy, and cricket is great to develop mental skills."

Although many see in him a young David Beckham, it is Thierry Henry who really inspires him:
"I'm a big Arsenal fan, he smiles. Thierry Henry is a powerful player, strong and fast, who displays a lot of finesse in his game. As for myself, he adds modestly, I'm not the fastest or the most skilled, but I think I can read the game well."

"There are many life lessons to be learned in football," observes Andy.
"First of all, it's about working in a team, not only accepting each-other's differences but also making the most of our individualities so we're stronger. It's also about looking after your mates. It's a great sport."

Aside from his obvious talent, Andy is the dream of any coach: he's never missed a game through injury. Fingers crossed or a secret of his?
"To be honest, he laughs, I don't do as much parallel training as I probably should. I'm just lucky, I guess. Having Alex (Focus Health Physiotherapist and Napier City Rover reserve team player) to look after us is great. We know we can go and see him at the clinic whenever we have a concern, which helps prevent injuries. He always has a good suggestion to make and assists before every game. During the week, Alex gives up his own training time whenever a player needs extra care and we all really appreciate it."

Andy's career goal? Playing with the All Whites, of course, but not for another two World Cups - or until he's completed his studies. Because you see, Andy Bevin is not just a talented sportsman: he's also got a good head on his shoulders. Recently granted a full scholarship by the prestigious West Virginia University, California, his only current problem is to decide which department to join.
"I've always loved school and learning in general, so choosing one topic is not easy. Pre-engineering sounds interesting, so does Architecture... Anyway, going to the US is an excellent professional pathway, in sports and otherwise."

The team at Focus Health wishes Andy all the best with his study in the US and looks forward to seeing him play for the All Whites.

Back to Newsletter