One Giant Leap…

Leo Mazis was delighted to make the move from Australia to Paradise after signing for Celtic.

- Mark Henderson

LEAVING home for the other side of the world at the age of 17 is never an easy decision, regardless of the prize on offer. But Leo Mazis had no hesitation in upping sticks from Australia to Glasgow to chase his football dream in Paradise.

Since agreeing a three-year deal with Celtic, he has swapped the Australian capital of Canberra for digs in Kirkintilloch and bid a fond farewell to family and friends. Summer Down Under has been replaced by a cold Scottish winter.

Naturally there have been difficult moments during this initial period of adjustment but they have been completely superseded at his excitement and enthusiasm at becoming a Bhoy.

Speaking exclusively to the Celtic View, he said: “I have been here over a month and everyone has been great and really welcoming which has helped me settle in. Leaving home was a big decision but coming to a massive club like this – there was no choice.

“One of my agents back home, Andy Bernal, also worked with Tom Rogic. I came over on trial, which was a surreal moment, as this is such a massive club. As soon as I got home from the trial I really wanted to come back and when I got the news it was absolutely amazing.

“It’s been difficult, especially the first couple of weeks, but I speak to my family every day on FaceTime. I speak to my Mum and Dad, my two little sisters and my uncle and aunties and they are all supporting me. You miss them but you have to make the sacrifice.

“All the boys have been good and there has been a bit of banter as well. It took a week or two and now it’s all good and I’m laughing away at things with them.