Local teenager’s soccer story has taken her from Milton to Malta

A Milton teenager is living the life of an international soccer star, suiting up for Malta as they try to qualify for the UEFA U-19 women’s championship.

Michela Ionadi, a 16-year-old who started her soccer journey with the Milton Youth Soccer Club, scored her first international goal during Malta’s 4-2 loss to Faroe Islands.

Ionadi began her soccer trek from Milton to Malta at just three years old.

“I knew that I wanted to be here the first day I put on my soccer shoes and MYSC kit,” Ionadi said of playing on the international stage.

The defender, who now has five caps for Malta, also picked up her first yellow card of her career.

“I am truly grateful for this opportunity to play in the U19 European Championship Qualifications, and against the best U19 players in Europe,” she said.

Ionadi credits staff and coaches at the MYSC for helping her prepare for success.

“I would like to thank my Milton Magic family for all the support from coaches to staff to teammates. I wouldn’t be here living my dream without them.”