Local boy signs with Sydney FC

Umina resident Chris Payne has signed a two-year contract with A-League soccer club Sydney FC and will earn a reported $76,000 during his two-year deal.

Payne has begun part-time training with Sydney FC while he finishes his commitments to his Higher School Certificate and current NSW Premier League club Manly United.

Payne is a Year 12 student at Narrabeen Sports High School in Sydney and began playing with Manly United at the age of 14.

Following his education and NSW Premier League commitments he will be eligible to play with the A-League this month.

Last year, Payne received the Luca Neill Scholarship which allowed him to travel to Blackburn and West Ham in the UK.

"This is a great opportunity for me," Payne said.

"I have always wanted to play for Sydney FC and to sign for them is amazing.

"With the start of the Youth League I was hoping to get a contract for the youth team but to get this is great.

"Sydney FC has put faith in me and given me the chance.

"Now it's up to me."

Press release, 21 May 2008 Sydney FC