OLÉ FOOTBALL ACADEMY GOALKEEPER FRANKIE WALKINGTON COMMITS TO MARSHALL UNIVERSITY
We’re incredibly excited for Olé player Frankie Walkington, who has committed to Marshall University. While there is currently much uncertainty surrounding COVID-19, as it stands Frankie will be heading over to West Virginia shortly, where he will join their Division 1 Men’s Soccer team and continue his studies, which he has already begun here in Wellington.
Frankie is a goalkeeper, and joined Olé four years ago, coming from Auckland to live in the residential facility and immerse himself in The Olé Way. During his time with the academy, Frankie has grown immensely as a player and a person. In a unique and challenging role as goalkeeper, he’s shown courage and resilience on and off the pitch. Frankie played a key role as the starting goalkeeper in the Western Suburbs side who won the 2019 Central League.
Olé Technical Director Ben Sippola has been working closely with Frankie and his family to find a school which would be the right fit, for both football and academics.
Marshall is a great school with a strong football (soccer) programme. They’ve gone from strength to strength in recent years, and had a fantastic 2019 season, making it into the Sweet 16.
Frankie said he couldn’t be more excited to get started. “I felt Marshall was the place which would allow me to bring out my full footballing capabilities. They put major emphasis on the Goalkeeper being the 11th man and view the GK as essential in the build up play, which is what really swayed me towards their program.”
Froylan Onofre, Olé Goalkeeper Coach, said Frankie’s ability to push himself to get better every day, is something every coach wishes for in their players. “He is prepared for the next step in his career at Marshall. I’m excited to see his growth at such a great institution.”
During his time with Olé, Frankie has added much value as a team mate, coach and role model to younger players. “He’s an exceptional person to have around, and a huge part of the organisation. He’s going to be missed, but we know he’s excited for this next step and we are all behind him,” said Ben Sippola.
Frankie has described his time at Olé as being the most beneficial experience of his life.
“We’re constantly training with like-minded passionate individuals and a devoted coaching staff year round. I’ve made life-long friends and relationships. Olé has not only shaped me as a footballer but also as an individual. They instil in you early how important it is not only to be a good player, but also a good team mate. It truly is the only place I want to play football in New Zealand.”
Everyone at Olé wishes you all the best Frankie, we look forward to seeing you make the most of your new experience!
