Feb. 6, 1997

David Beckham at practice

The future Mr. Posh Spice gets his stretches in.

by Alex Q. Arbuckle(opens in a new tab)

Image: Mark Leech/Getty Images

Born in London in 1975, David Robert Joseph Beckham decided at a young age that all he really wanted to do when he grew up was play soccer.

With a pair of diehard Manchester United fans for parents, the young Beckham was able to play to his heart’s content, earning the title of Under-15 Player of the Year in 1990 and signing on to Manchester United as a trainee the following year.

Beckham put in impressive performances for several years before being catapulted to fame in 1996 with a stunning goal against Wimbledon from the halfway line.

On February 6, 1997, photographer Mark Leech captured the floppy-haired up-and-comer practicing at Bisham Abbey outside of London.

Image: Mark Leech/Getty Images

Image: Mark Leech/Getty Images

Image: Mark Leech/Getty Images

Image: Mark Leech/Getty Images

Image: Mark Leech/Getty Images

Image: Mark Leech/Getty Images

Image: Mark Leech/Getty Images

Image: Mark Leech/Getty Images

Image: Mark Leech/Getty Images

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