Bradford soccer star Sonya Moore has won a dream chance to play in North America.

Sonya flies out this summer to join Canada's Montreal club who compete in the North American Women's Football League.

The move could lead to a professional contract for Sonya.

The 20-year-old from Bierley joined Bradford City Women's Football Club as a ten-year-old. She made her first-team debut at the age of 11 and has gone on to score 92 goals in 173 senior games.

She has also notched another 150 goals in junior and reserve team football.

It was these statistics, posted on the club's web site (www.bcfc.freeserve.co.uk), that came to the attention of the Montreal coach almost 3,000 miles away.

He promptly called one of his players who is based in England with Reading Royals and she contacted the City club for Sonya's telephone number.

"They told me I had until February 10 to make up my mind," Sonya said.

"But I'd made my decision before the end of the phone call.

"It is all a big shock. I don't think it will sink in until I'm actually on the plane on my way out there.

"It's a bit scary not knowing what to expect and going on my own, but it's a great opportunity for me.

"If I do well they have told me there is the chance of a college scholarship or even the possibility of finding me a professional club in Germany or Italy.

"I have to find my own fare but accommodation is provided.

"Though it will be next year before the club go fully professional there will be a wage for me as a part-timer."

If everything goes to plan Sonya will leave for Canada at the end of April and play throughout the North Amer-ican season from May to August.

She paid tribute to the help given her by former club coach Mick Wood.

Wood says he is "really pleased" for Sonya, adding: "She is probably the most naturally gifted player the club has ever had.

"Perhaps she is old enough now to make the most of her ability."

There was also praise for the club's computer buff Melvin Nash, a Business Area Manager at Morrisons' head office, who was responsible for setting up the web site.

He said: "We have had e-mails from the USA before but it is good to know that the site is being used in this way.

"I got involved when my daughter Rosemary began playing. I just wanted to do something to help promote the club.

"Computers are my hobby as well as my work and I spend hours every week getting as much up-to-date information on the web site as possible."

The City women's team have no game this weekend.

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