Adelaide United left-back Cassio and his family are proud to gain Australian citizenship.
The 32-year old Brazilian-born defender, his wife and two sons have pledged their commitment and loyalty to the Commonwealth of Australia after arriving in the country in 2007.
Cassio and his family were presented with their citizenship by Federal Member for Hindmarsh Steve Georganas MP at a ceremony on the Hindmarsh Stadium pitch in front of friends and the Adelaide squad.
"I'm so proud. This is a real special moment for me and my family," Cassio said.
"I remember the first time I stepped into this country and especially into Adelaide in 2007, I remember telling my wife that I had really good feelings coming to Australia and hopefully we stay here for more than one year.
"We've been here for five-and-a-half years and it has been hard staying away from our families back in Brazil, but I've found new friends and new family here and that makes me feel so good and I'm very proud at this moment."
Cassio began his career with Flamengo back in 2000 and has since played for the likes of Internacional, New England Revolution, Ceara and Santa Cruz. He has made close to 100 appearances for the Rids since he arrived in Adelaide.
