Young soccer players from the Chicago area vie for an opportunity to train with Real Madrid in Spain

CHICAGO (WLS) — A group of the area’s top soccer talents are testing their abilities, aiming for the chance to train with the prestigious Real Madrid club.

Taking to the pitch were dozens of the Midwest’s rising soccer stars are hoping to kick their talents to the world stage.

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“They have an extraordinary opportunity today to try out, showcasing not only their soccer skills but also their character and community impact,” said Pam Nisevich Bede from Abbott.

Healthcare organization Abbott, along with Real Madrid, organized tryouts at Lake View High School for the “Abbott Dream Team,” giving two fortunate athletes the chance to exhibit their talents to some of the top coaches in soccer.

The lucky players selected will have the chance to showcase their skills and learn from Real Madrid through an all-expenses paid trip to Spain, specifically at the club’s official training facilities.

And who better to help guide the up-and-coming athletes and assist in leading tryouts than American soccer legend Clint Dempsey, a former forward for the US Men’s National Team.

Dempsey has these words of wisdom for the young athletes striving for success in the game.

“I think it’s important to not try and be something your not,” Dempsey said. “Do the things that made you fall in love with the game. That will show and give you success.”

The athletes descended on the North Side from across the Chicago area, working through a number of drills.

Elizabeth Semenec came all the way from Cleveland, Ohio. Semenec says this rare opportunity would be a dream come true.

“That is my dream to train overseas and play overseas someday,” Semenec said. ” I am willing to drive for that.”

Others like William Cuozzi from Indiana said training in front of a legend like Dempsey levels the playing field.

“Opportunities like this are terrific for players who may have gone under the radar or not have had the opportunity to begin with. Especially because it’s so accessible. It’s free,” Cuozzi said.

From the North Side to the other side of the globe a goal each of these players is hoping to score.

The two players picked to head to Spain won’t just be able to train with Real Madrid and work with their coaching staff, they’ll also get to attend a Real Madrid match.