He may only be a little under five foot tall but this 13 year old has a really big future ahead of him.

Sebastian Martinez has just signed an 18-month contract with Swindon Town in the United Kingdom.

After completing a successful six week trial at The County Ground, Sebastian signed on the dotted line.

His father Barry said: “Sebastian is living his dream.”

Swindon sign teen soccer star

A Cayman schoolboy’s dream of playing football on the big stage took one step closer yesterday.

Teenager Sebastian Martinez has signed an 18-month professional contract with Swindon Town in the UK.

The 13-year-old enjoyed a successful six week trial at the County Ground and has now put pen to paper.

And there’s no doubt he’ll be learning from the very best.

Swindon is managed by former West Ham hero Paulo Di Canio. The fiery Italian has also played for AC Milan, Juventus and Lazio in his native country.

Attacking midfielder Martinez may only stand at just under five foot tall, but he’s already proved to be a big hit on the pitch after scoring in a junior match against Bournmouth.

His father, Barry, was in the UK to watch him play and sign his contract.

Mr Martinez said: “It’s a tremendous opportunity for him to advance his football abilities.

“Sebastian is living his dream. It is an opportunity of a lifetime and I think it is brilliant that he has the chance to do this.

“Sebastian’s coaches at Academy Sports Club, Mr. Winston Chung and Mr. Virgil Seymour, were always looking and pushing for opportunities for him.

“He also had tremendous support from the Office of the Premier, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Sports and Footballs’ Technical Director, Carl Brown, who introduced him to former Swindon player and talent scout Fitzroy Simpson, who visited the Cayman Islands earlier
this year.

“I hope this opens doors for the many other talented players we have in the Cayman Islands. We seriously need to pay attention to developing our young athletes. The fact that Sebastian is playing for a major club overseas show others what is possible,” he said.

Minister of Sports, the Hon. Mark Scotland, who took the lead in making Sebastian’s trip possible said his ministry will continue to work with the Cayman Islands Football Association to create opportunities for local players.

“Sports development is high on our agenda. Not only does this give talented youngsters opportunities to broaden their horizons, but it also gives our young people positive ideals to aspire to,” the Minister said. “I would like to commend Sebastian’s parents for their tireless efforts in creating this opportunity for him”.

“With the connection now made, the Ministry and CIFA are looking forward to a long-standing relationship with Swindon,” Minister Scotland added.