The fast-paced attacker becomes the newest scholarship player at the club after signing his maiden professional contract on Friday.

A former Australian U-17 representative, Kekeris arrived at the Mariners in 2016 and has featured in two National Youth League campaigns and two NPL campaigns.

Asensio's Screamer Vs FC Barcelona
Asensio's Screamer Vs FC Barcelona
In one of Real Madrid's most outstanding performances at the Camp Nou, Los Blancos beat FC Barcelona 3-1 in the Spanish Supercup. Real were leading 2-1 after Cristiano Ronaldo's 80th minute goal, but just before the final whistle, we sealed the win with this beautiful Marco Asensio strike.
0 seconds of 43 secondsVolume 0%
Press shift question mark to access a list of keyboard shortcuts
00:00
00:43
00:43
 
keep watching Watch more Real Madrid videos on OneFootball

“Words can’t describe how I am feeling right now,” said Kekeris, who is contracted until the end of the 2018/19. “This is a dream come true.

“It shows that all of the hard work that I’ve put in, and sacrifices I’ve made, have paid off. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank my family for supporting me, backing me and allowing me to chase my dream.

“For me, the hard work really begins now. I know I have to work even harder now. (Coach) Mike Mulvey, Nick Montgomery, Ray Junna and Ken Schembri have really backed me and at the Mariners I believe that I can achieve big things.

“Mike Mulvey is the type of coach that brings out the best in me, he’s firm but fair. Having someone like him at the club is very important and I would like to thank him for having faith in me and believing in me which gives me real confidence.

“I’ve loved every minute of my time at the Mariners. The atmosphere around the club from the first team to the academy is really down to earth and it’s an absolute pleasure to work with them all – I’m really looking forward to my future at the Mariners.

“My goal now is to get minutes. I want to have an impact on this season and improve as a footballer."

The 19-year-old made his first team debut for the Mariners last season in round 26 against Melbourne City at AAMI Park.

Mulvey highlighted Kekeris’ natural ability.

“Peter has all the raw ingredients to make a footballer,” Mulvey said. “He has ability in one v one situations and speed to burn, if he learns from the more experienced players day-by-day in training he will continue to develop his decision making and all-round game. 

“He has trained with the A-League squad for a number of weeks and has earned this contract through hard work and his ability to listen and evolve his game; and he knows this is just the start. 

“We really hope that this is the beginning of bringing players through the youth ranks. All academy players need to know that the opportunity is there for them."