FOOTBALL phenomenon Billy Wingrove wowed schoolchildren with a lesson in the art of ball juggling.
The football freestyler gave a breathtaking display of tricks and skills during a special assembly at St Patrick’s Primary School, Birkby.
Hundreds of awestruck youngsters cheered, clapped and chanted his name as he performed his gravity defying repertoire.
He told them: “My friends used to play computer games and watch TV while I was practising my football skills.
“I wanted to be the best.
“Do you think I buy these skills at Argos or get them with a happy meal at McDonald’s?
“No, I practised again and again.
“That applies to you too, not only if you want to be a footballer, but if you want to be a doctor, dentist or fireman. Don’t give up, keep practising and you will get to where you want to be.”
Billy, 24, is employed by Premiership club Tottenham Hotspur to showcase his spectacular talents during games and at venues across the country.
He has rubbed shoulders with top players, including Manchester United’s Cristiano Ronaldo and Ronaldinho, of Barcelona and Brazil.
He has also been involved in the famous Nike football adverts.
Billy is involved in setting up a football academy, Legends Academy of Football, in Huddersfield.
Alongside ex-professionals like Jan Molby, Mark Wright and Neil Ruddock, he will teach skills to youngsters.
He said: “It’s a great chance for them to learn from some quality players.
“When I was at school, every break and lunchtime would just be taken up by football.
“I would come home, have a bite to eat and be out again.
“It’s all about enjoying the game and practising hard.”
Billy will be attempting to break his personal record of more than 9,000 kick-ups at the Kingsgate shopping centre tomorrow afternoon. He will also perform at half-time at Huddersfield Town’s game with Port Vale.
For more information about the football academy visit www.lafuk.com
