Soccer fan on trip of a lifetime

Jack Scott, 9, is looking forward to his trip but apprehensive about his first flight. Photo / Christine Cornege

Nine-year-old Jack Scott has won the trip of a lifetime to Johannesburg to see the All Whites play their first game in the Fifa World Cup.

The Kimihia Primary School student from Huntly will walk the All White team on to the field and stand alongside as they sing the national anthem.

Jack was selected from 82,000 entries from primary school students around the country in the McDonald's My Greatest Feat Programme.

He will travel with his parents tomorrow to Australia then South Africa in time for the All White's game against Slovakia next Tuesday.

Jack will also be given tours of World Cup stadiums and the chance to go on a safari.

Father Craig Scott said Jack is very excited but a little apprehensive about his first trip on a plane.

"We have been talking about the flight a lot this week," said Mr Scott.

The trip came as quite a surprise to Jack.

Players Tim Brown and Ben Sigmund came to his school assembly where they announced Jack would be joining them on the field for their first World Cup game.

"It's taken a week for him to really get used to the idea," said Mr Scott.

Jack is an avid soccer fan and player.

He plays in both club and school teams as well as playing rugby.

Mr Scott said they would take a "flag and bits and pieces" to be signed by the All White team with a card from Jack's class wishing the team well.