He was always committed, trained hard and, after attending the Homeless World Cup in Italy, he said "After playing for my country in Milan I now want to be a professional footballer".
Lots of young boys dream of a career in football. Very few make it. Monira worked harder than everyone else. He never gave up. Recently he captained his team Western Phnom Penh in a Cambodian Premier League game against his old team EDC FC.
It was a proud moment for him and all the HFCA staff to see him lead his team out. After the game Monira said "I very sad we lose the game but to be given the honor of been Captain is a great feeling. I know the coach believes in me. In our next games, I will give 100% for my team."
Monira is a naturally gifted footballer and an excellent free kick taker, as we know from his games with the HFCA team in the KMH Champions League, where he scored three goals from free kicks. He is a leader and expects the best from his team mates. He leads by example and drives his team mates forward.
When not busy being a professional player he comes to our HFCA Academy in Phnom Penh and runs coaching sessions or talks to the younger players. Having come from one of the poorest neighbourhoods in Phnom Penh he knows and understands their world. They see him as real proof that been from the wrong side of town is not a barrier to success.
