THREE years ago Nathan Vassallo would have had to search the dictionary to find the definition of the word Sherrin. Today, the red AFL ball is Nathan's constant companion.
``Have Sherrin, will travel'' is the teenager's motto. The Chipping Norton boy has been selected in the NSW All Schools under-16 team to compete at the national championships at Maroochydore, Queensland, between July 26 and August 1.
The 183-centimetre tall athlete made the 24 player squad after starring for the Combined Catholic Colleges representative team at the recent trials in Coffs Harbour. The former Liverpool Eagles player is now blowing the opposition away with Bankstown Bombers.
Nathan was first introduced to Australian rules football in year 6 at Newbridge Heights Public School.
``I had previously played soccer and basketball but it wasn't until my teacher in primary school suggested I try AFL,'' Nathan, 14, said.
Nathan has kicked plenty of goals after the switch of codes.
The rover and forward-pocket player has made several representative teams including the Sydney Swans under-16s academy.
The academy program includes specialised coaching on Monday nights at North Ryde.
``It's a busy week for me training with the academy, club training with Bankstown Bombers on Tuesday and Thursdays and then I coach an under-10s team on Thursday nights as well,'' Nathan said.