12 year old makes professional debut in Bolivian soccer league

Mauricio Baldivieso is thought to have become the youngest player ever to play in professional football. He came on as a substitute in a Bolivian football match and was promptly given a rude reception when an opponent tackled him in such a rough manner that Baldivieso, holding back tears, had to receive medical attention. He later returned to the game amid cheers and thanked fans after the game.

From the article, his exact words were, "A million thanks to everyone,” said an emotional Baldivieso after the game, “I am the most happy man in the world.”

Well, happiest boy at least even though I am sure he felt like a man after that tackle.