Two Warwick Academy students, Xavier Thomas-Bassett and Ayshalay Simons, have been invited to two international football events.

Thomas-Bassett is heading to the Mediterranean International Cup, which takes place from March 24 to 31 in Spain, while Simons will be part of the Crossfire Challenge College Showcase tournament from July 12 to 15 in the United States.

Thomas-Bassett’s invitation came after he participated in the International Development Academy at Warwick during the October break and he now has a great opportunity to particpate in the MIC Cup, in which players such as Lionel Messi, Marcelo, Juan Mata, and Philippe Coutinho played before becoming world-class stars.

“Based on his demonstrated abilities as a goalkeeper, Xavier has been invited to participate in the Mediterranean International Cup tournament with the 2011 IDA Valencia programme,’’ Warwick Academy said.

“The MIC is one of the largest youth tournaments in the world and annually attracts major clubs such as Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester United, Arsenal, PSG and Ajax.

“Xavier will spend several days in Valencia, Spain, training with the team and playing a warm-up match before travelling to Lloret de Mar for the tournament where he will play in a minimum of four matches.”

Simons got her opportunity following the Surf National Showcase event in San Diego, California, wher she participated in college combine and Surf National Select games with the North East Surf Regional Select 2008 girls team.

“Players from this event were assessed for invitation to the Surf National Select teams, which participate in international tournaments and showcase events throughout the calendar year,’’ Warwick Academy said.

“Ayshalay was outstanding playing at centre back for her team, and has earned selection to the Surf National Select white team that will participate in the Crossfire Challenge College Showcase tournament.

“The Crossfire Challenge has become the premier youth tournament in the Pacific Northwest and attracted more than 100 college coaches and scouts last year.

“Ayshalay will have the opportunity to play with elite level players at this high-level event, hoping to impress and get on the radar of coaches recruiting for their colleges and universities.”