From Annan Athletic to World Cup Glory: A Scottish Player Shines for New Zealand

In a remarkable journey that spans continents, Steve and Susan Elliot have showcased their dedication as football parents, traveling extensively to support their son, Callan. The young player began his football journey with Annan Athletic, a club in Scotland's League 2, before relocating with his family to New Zealand at the age of seven. Now, Callan has achieved a significant milestone, earning a spot on New Zealand's national team for the World Cup.

His parents embarked on a journey of approximately 6,500 miles (10,500 km) to witness their son's opening match against Iran at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, set to kick off early Tuesday morning UK time. Dad Steve expressed the overwhelming emotions he and his wife are experiencing, stating, "It's not easy to put into words how both his mum and I feel - proud, amazed, a football parent's dream. It's truly surreal - so looking forward to this."

Callan, now an attacking right-back, has come a long way since he first started playing at the age of four. "He just so enjoyed playing so much," Steve recalled, noting their family’s move to Nelson, New Zealand, when Callan was nearing his seventh birthday. Although born in Scotland, Callan chose to represent New Zealand, the country that nurtured his growth as a player.

Reflecting on his aspirations, Callan previously shared with BBC Scotland how his early experiences shaped his love for football. "My dad played a lot - never professionally - just locally, and so he just got me into it from a young age," he noted. After dabbling in various sports upon moving to New Zealand, he ultimately committed to football at the age of 12, a decision that has clearly paid off.

As New Zealand prepares for their matches against Iran, Egypt, and Belgium, Steve remains realistic about Callan’s football journey. "I'm not sure if he’s up to Scotland squad standard, but maybe after this World Cup will tell us the answer," he remarked. With the family’s unwavering support, including that of one of Callan's brothers and his partner Keany Morey, who hails from Edinburgh, the young player has a solid foundation of encouragement as he aims to make a mark on the global stage.