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Michael McDougald a Soccer, Hockey Star at 10

The young athlete travels to Portugal to participate in "Little World Cup."

Know a great kid who made Eagle Scout or did your local soccer team take the championship? They may be our next Patch Whiz Kids honoree.

Each week, Chatham Patch seeks suggestions from readers for individual kids, youth groups, teens and even sports teams that wow us with their accomplishments.

Here's this week's selection:

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Whiz Kid of the Week:  Michael McDougald

Whiz Kid's School: Lafayette School

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Whiz Kid's Major Activity: Soccer and Hockey  

Whiz Kid's Accomplishments:  Michael has accomplished much in only 10 years. Aside from managing the commitments of being part of two hockey teams and two travel soccer clubs, Michael remains conscientious about both his home and school work. He is disciplined about carving out time right when he gets home to do his homework, so that he can get to practice or play outside with his friends.

Michaels's most exciting accomplishment thus far in his sports career has been the opportunity to compete at an International level in a tournament known as the "Mundialito" (Little World Cup) this Spring, Michael was "scouted" by a the coach who would bring the USA to Spain and Portugal to compete against to flight international competition. He was one of only 12 team members chosen from hundreds of excellent players in the US to travel to Europe this April. There he competed against teams from Germany, Spain, the Netherlands, Italy, Brazil and many more. Michael played in at least two games every day and says he enjoyed witnessing the cultural experience of being in a country where his number one sport was really the national treasure.

Whiz Kid’s Key to Awesomeness: Michael says his success can be attributed to his ability to really think through the game. Whether it is soccer or hockey, coaches and players alike have commented on Michael's "smarts" when it comes to thinking through plays, looking at the bigger picture, and thinking strategically. He is always lauded as a true team player.

Michael says he rarely watches television or plays video games and is much happier playing outside. He also prides himself on surviving in a household with three sisters.

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