Margaret River's Timon Bonelli has had time to cool his heels at home during the COVID-19 crisis, with the A League and his burgeoning career with Perth Glory put on hold.
Born on Reunion Island before relocating to France and then Australia as a child, Bonelli spent his formative years in Margaret River before being called to play for Perth Glory. During the pandemic he has been back in town but that hasn't stopped the talented footballer from training.
Bonelli has been taking part in one on one sessions with Luke Johnston at LJ Soccer to keep up his fitness and skill level to prepare him for play when restrictions are lifted.
Mr Johnston said Bonelli's dedication and love of the game was clear to see.
"He is a fantastic role model to anyone around Margaret River who looks to follow in his footsteps," he said.
"This is just one example of a kid from a small town believing in their dreams and sacrificing everything to make it happen at the big time.
Bonelli has recently returned to Perth and will be starting training with Glory over the next few weeks.
Q&A with Timon Bonelli
When and how did you start playing football?
I started playing football when I came to Australia, so I was seven and I started playing at Margaret River football club.
Who do you support?
I don't really support anyone but If u have to say someone, probably Arsenal or PSG.
Who are your role models and why?
My role model is my dad because he taught me everything I know and even with the ups and downs he's always been there for me.
Do you feel any other sports have helped you with your football development?
Well, I find it helpful to know about other sports because it might be useful to bring what you've learned into football.
What are your dreams and aspirations within football?
My dream is to become the best of all time in football , quite a simple dream really.
What was it like growing up in Margaret River and playing football here?
Margaret River was really a great way to start my career, playing football here you'll only find nice people, some more interested than others in the sport, but I learnt heaps of things from this great town.
What is it like playing at Perth Glory, the highest level of football in the state?
Perth glory is great, but if you get there, don't be over confident, don't get complacent and you have to keep striving to be better.
Do you miss living in the country?
The city life is new for me, and it's quite different but nice at the same time.
I miss the surf but what I miss more are my friends who I can barely see, but I believe its one of the big sacrifices you have to make to be who you want to be.
What advice would you give to any young aspiring players in and around Margaret River?
One advice, to be honest guys I am very confident, but never take where you are for granted and always show respect to the people who are higher, equal or even below your status, remember training harder and more efficiently than any other player is key to becoming THE BEST.
