American Scholarships - A guide for players, parents and guardians For entry in 2018 - LFE
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American Scholarships A guide for players, parents and guardians For entry in 2018
Contents
Title Page
Foreword 3
Soccer Scholarship Journey 4
Studying in the USA 5
Thinking about studying in the USA? 5
Why study in the USA? 5
What course should I choose? 6
Eligibility 7
Are you eligible to study in the USA? 7
Admissions Criteria 7
Football Representation 7
Academic Performance 8
GCSEs and A Level Results Converter 8
NCAA, NAIA & NJCAA 9
Professional/Apprentice Eligibility 9
Entry Requirements 10
Overview – The SAT Test 10
Overview – The ACT Test 10
Study Material 10
SAT and ACT Dates 10
SAT Scores 10
SAT Centres 11
Sports Scholarships 12
Overview 12
How to get a Scholarship 13–14
PASS4Soccer 15
LFE and PASS4Soccer Event Cycle 16
PFA Charity Grants 17
Stories from the States 18–19
Useful Contacts 20
2 American Scholarships Guide www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline
Foreword
Welcome to the Guide to American In recent seasons a growing number of Apprentices have
taken advantage of the opportunity to start scholarships
Scholarships. The purpose of in America.
this booklet is to offer practical This has provided a number of advantages including the way
and independent advice to current that their degree is funded. Others include the opportunity
to experience a new culture and lifestyle and of course the
and former Apprentice footballers chance to play football at a good level while studying towards
a degree.
who are considering taking up a
This booklet is designed to help you understand the
soccer scholarship to study in The background and process involved in obtaining a scholarship.
United States of America. It should also help you evaluate whether this is the right option
for you.
LFE is aware that the eligibility criteria regularly changes
which can sometimes cause difficulty for players to access
this opportunity. However we are seeing a consistently high
number of Apprentices making the transition and you can
consider this option as a realistic possibility.
We hope this booklet provides you with much of the
information that will assist you in pursuing your ambition to
start university life in the United States and as you read on
you will also find a variety of referral contacts who can offer
further guidance.
Yours faithfully
Alan Sykes
Chief Executive
3 American Scholarships Guide www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline
Soccer Scholarship Journey
5
CV
1
4
2 SAT TEST
6
3 PASS
7
9 8
STUDENT VISA
1 Eligibility Check 5 Using the Web for your advantage
It is important to understand whether you are eligible to study Individualise and strengthen your CV by offering coaches
and compete at USA University level before you take any of access to footage of you in action.
the below steps. Read the ‘Eligibility’ section on page 7 in this
guide and/or call LFE’s Progression Team on 01772 326875. 6 Initial Eligibility Clearing House (IECH)
Register with the appropriate IECH i.e. NCAA, NAIA to
2 Research show prospective colleges/universities that you are eligible
Investigate which Universities & Colleges offer Men’s to study at their institution.
Soccer at Varsity level at www.ncaa.org, www.naia.org and
www.njcaa.org 7 The SAT exam
Register for and sit the SAT or ACT Test. Remember to take
Then check out who offers scholarships in Men’s Soccer by advantage of the tips and test preparation information
visiting individual University and College athletic department available via www.collegeboard.org, www.act.org and www.
web pages. fullbright.org.uk
3 Making your Selection 8 Visa
Obtain contact details for coaches at universities and Once you have been offered a place your College/University
colleges which offer soccer scholarships and match this will issue you with an I-20 form (The document you need
list against institutions that you feel can help you fulfil your to apply for is an F-1 student visa) and guidance on applying
academic and personal aspirations. Then draw up your for a Visa.
shortlist. i.e. make sure that the institutions to which you are
going to apply offer a course you will want to major in. 9 Your new Journey begins
Once your Visa application has been approved book your
4 Highlighting your talent flights and head across the pond to start your new life as a
Contact coaches on your shortlist and send out your CV and scholar in the United States.
covering letter that explains both your academic and soccer
playing abilities in terms that they understand. For additional
support see the PASS4Soccer section in Sports Scholarships
on page 15.
4 American Scholarships Guide www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline
Studying in the USA
Thinking about studying for a degree in Why study in the USA?
the USA?
Interested in heading to the USA to study? You’re in good
You may now be starting to think for the first time about company. Last year, over 10,000 UK students chose the USA
playing elite-level football in a different country and for undergraduate study because it will allow you to:
developing yourself as more than a footballer. This process
1. Choose from the wide range of universities on offer
in itself can be quite exciting as well as daunting. If you are
There are over 4,500 US universities offering undergraduate
considering going to University and playing football in The
degrees.
United States of America, it is important to explore the cultural
differences that you may encounter and how studying in the 2. Take advantage of funding opportunities
USA fits within your long term personal development and Many students are able to fund their studies through
career aims. scholarships from US universities and external funding
bodies. Every year over 600 US universities offer international
When deciding what degree you would prefer to do, take the
students scholarships of $20,000 or more. Scholarships
opportunity to see what career possibilities could follow from
can be offered on merit, financial need and extracurricular
the subject you are interested in.
achievement but you will most likely be seeking a scholarship
which will be offered in recognition of your ability to
play soccer.
Did you know... 3. Experience American college life
Last year, over 10,000 UK US universities are known for their vibrant campus life,
students chose the USA for marked by a plethora of opportunities for students to
undergraduate study. get involved on campus and in the community. There are
literally hundreds of student organisations, athletic and
campus events that allow students to pursue their interests
in the arts, sport, leadership, voluntary service and more,
all whilst getting their college degree.
4. Have the flexibility to explore your academic interests
Generally speaking, the undergraduate curriculum in
the US is quite flexible. It is perfectly acceptable to be
undecided about your major or field of study when applying
to university. US universities teach under what is called
the ‘liberal arts philosophy’. This means students take
classes from a variety of subjects during the first 1–2 years
of university study before specialising in their major field.
Students also have the option to complete a ‘double major’,
degrees in two academic fields, which are often completed
within the normal four years of study. Students may also earn
a minor qualification, which is awarded upon completing 3–5
classes in one field.
5. Internationalise and strengthen your CV
When the Council for Industry and Higher Education (CIHE)
surveyed 230 major UK recruiters, 65% of employers
favoured applicants with overseas work experience.
International students in the US have the opportunity to gain
work experience during their studies and to work in the US
for up to one year after graduation on the Optional Practical
Training scheme.
6. Travel in the US and learn about another culture
The US spans six time zones and has a great diversity in
geography and culture. Long university summer holidays and
programmes organised by the international students office,
such as holiday trips and host family schemes, offer students
a great opportunity to see the US.
5 American Scholarships Guide www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline
What course should I choose?
At University in the USA, your ‘major’ is the main academic
subject that you will study on your degree. It is your field
of specialisation during your undergraduate studies. You
will also be required to study a core curriculum. Therefore
unlike the UK system in your first year (freshman) you will be
required to study a compulsory core curriculum which may
include Mathematics, Science, English, History, Logic and
Philosophy, but which also allows you to choose electives
in subjects that interest you. This is also your chance to take
introductory courses in what you hope will become your main
subject of study (known as your major).
In your second year as a Sophomore, you will complete the core
curriculum and advance in some subjects to the next level. At
this point if you have decided on a major subject you may begin
taking classes specific to that subject. However, you are not
required to formally declare a major until your third (Junior) year.
Your third year or Junior year should see you commence the
advanced coursework for your major, which will see you build
up to your fourth (Senior) year where you will complete your
undergraduate study and take your final exams.
Did you know...
the USA,
At University in
e main
your ‘major’ is th
ct that you
academic subje
ur degree.
will study on yo
6 American Scholarships Guide www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline
Eligibility
Are you eligible to study in the USA? Admissions Criteria
Athletic associations govern college sports and set rules As a general rule, US universities will expect to see a similar
regarding scholarships and athletic recruitment. There are a type of qualification and results as British universities of a
number of associations that colleges or universities can join, similar level of prestige and competitiveness.
most notably:
As a minimum requirement for four-year Bachelor’s degrees,
• National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) you should have completed at least five GCSEs at grade C or
There are over 1200 member universities and colleges above (or five Scottish Standard Grades), including English
classified within three NCAA divisions (Divisions I and II and Maths, plus be completing or have completed a post age
being the most competitive). Athletic standards are high 16 qualification. A small number of high ranking academic
and the level of competition is intense. Only students with universities will require A Levels for entry. Students aspiring to
the very highest standard of ability tend to be recruited. very high academic universities are recommended to research
(www.ncaa.org) their individual requirements.
• National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) If you have completed your BTEC and your NVQ during your
There are around 350, mostly smaller colleges in the apprenticeship, you are eligible to apply to almost all NCAA
NAIA, organised by districts. Many NAIA colleges have universities. However, certain universities in the states will
excellent sports programmes and may offer some sports prefer those that have completed their extended diploma. Call
scholarships. The level of athletic ability is still high, LFE’s Progression Team for more details on this.
although the standard is not set as high as for NCAA
Division I teams. (www.naia.org)
Football Representation
• National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA)
Signing an agreement with an agency or agent to represent
Member colleges are accredited two-year institutions.
you and support your football career can result in loss of
The NJCAA is comprised of two divisions. Division I colleges
eligibility for entering a scholarship in the USA. You should
may offer full scholarships, whereas Division III do not offer
consider this before entering into any agreement and if you
scholarships. (www.njcaa.org).
seek advice or guidance relating to representation then you
Students hoping to be considered for a sports scholarship should contact The PFA on 0161 236 0575.
must meet normal university/college entrance requirements
(published on the university admissions page) and continue
to obtain satisfactory grades at university in order to
receive and retain their scholarships. As a guideline, various
sporting authorities have set their own minimum academic
requirements for competing students.
Did you know...
ement
Signing an agre
support
with an agent to all
otb
you and your fo
lt in loss of
career can resu
holarships
eligibility for sc
sider this
in the USA. Con
into any
before entering
agreement!
7 American Scholarships Guide www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline
Academic Performance GCSEs and A Level Results Converter
Your academic abilities will be evaluated in the first
UK Numerical US Letter US Grade
instance by your GCSE results and or your predicted
Grade Grade Point Average
A Level/BTEC results.
However, your academic aptitude will also be assessed 7, 8, 9 A 4.0
through your performance on admissions tests. 5 or 6 B 3.0
Admissions tests are used as a common denominator
to compare applications from different US states (there 4 C 2.0
is no national curriculum) and different countries.
1, 2 or 3 F 0
The stronger your academic record inside the classroom
and on standardised tests, the stronger your chances
of admission. If you have done particularly well in your
previous study, you may be awarded advanced standing
by the US university you attend. However, academic
achievements alone will not guarantee entrance to
competitive US university programmes.
Unfortunately, there is not an official grade conversion
Did you know...
between US and UK marks. Instead, US university The stronger yo
ur academic
admissions officers either evaluate international record inside th
e classroom
credentials internally or require that students use an and on standar
dised tests,
external credential evaluator. On the right-hand side the stronger yo
ur chances
is a chart displaying approximate grade conversions of admission.
that may be useful in determining competitiveness
for admission and funding.
American universities may use this Grade Point Average
to help them form an opinion of an applicant’s academic
strength. Please note, if you are applying to go to the
US, Fulbright does not recommend converting your
UK grades in to US scores on your application. Your UK
results should be submitted in their original format.
8 American Scholarships Guide www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline
National Collegiate Athletic Association Professional/Apprentice Eligibility
(NCAA)
If looking to attend an NCAA governed University and
• Five or more different academic subject passes at GCSE you have been a professional footballer then you could
grades A–E or Scottish Standard grades 1–7 including still be eligible.
maths, English, science and social studies (history,
However spending a year or more out of formal education
geography etc.) with an overall average of grade ‘C’
or earning wages/bonuses above the set threshold will
or ‘3’.
make you ineligible.
• The NCAA applies a sliding scale for the minimum
Completing your BTEC and NVQ ensures you are eligible
SAT scores that are required for acceptance to NCAA
to go to university in America without ‘topping up’ your
Division I colleges. This will depend on your average
education.
academic grade. The higher your average academic
grade is, the lower the minimum SAT score required. As long as you don’t receive more than the financial
threshold playing for a football club in that gap year then
The higher your average academic grade is, the lower
you should retain your eligiblity.
the minimum SAT score required.
Please note, if you continue formal education after your
National Association of Intercollegiate Apprenticeship then this may extend the deadline for you
Athletics (NAIA) to start US University.
‘C’ or ‘3’ grade average overall in GCSE subjects, Scottish It is important to seek advice about the above because
Standards, or an alternative qualification such as GNVQ eligibility is complicated and should not be assumed.
or GSVQ if the school authorities can confirm your marks All entries to Universities/Colleges will go through to
were in the ‘Top Half’ of the class. the governing body’s clearing house who will determine
You must have a minimum score of 18 on the ACT or your eligibility.
940 on the SAT (if you take the SAT more than once, Each application is dealt with on an individual basis and
combining scores is NOT acceptable) to compete at not always uniformly. As such there have been cases
a NAIA institution. where some players have received bans restricting their
ability to play for their University soccer team.
National Junior College Athletic Association
In addition in certain cases bans have been imposed
(NJCAA) on some former Apprentices but not others that are in
Talented individuals who do not qualify for either of the attendance at the same University.
above may be able to gain admission to a junior college.
All former Apprentices should note that NCAA
Each college will set its own entrance requirements.
Universities/Colleges apply stricter criteria to entry in
NJCAA colleges in general do not have a minimum to their programmes.
passing score for the SAT although individual colleges
LFE recommends you seek free eligibility advice from
may set one.
PASS4Soccer on 0191 229 5236.
Something to check...
Too much time spent out of
formal education or earning
wages/bonuses above the
set threshold will make
you ineligible.
9 American Scholarships Guide www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline
Entry Requirements
Overview – The SAT Test Study Material
The SAT Test, also known as SAT Reasoning Test, is a www.KhanAcademy.org/SAT is the college board
standardised test for college admissions in the USA. The SAT recommended study material.
is owned, published, and developed by the College Board, a
non-profit organisation in the USA. The College Board claims
the test can assess a student’s readiness for college. SAT and ACT Dates
The current SAT test consists of two main sections (Math SAT and ACT Reasoning Tests are run at a variety of centres
and Evidence-Based Reading & Writing), whilst there is also across the country. There is generally a requirement to pre-
an optional essay which a small number of universities may register for these tests at least six weeks prior to the test date:
also require.
SAT Test Dates:
The cost to register for the SAT Reasoning Test is $54.40 + 2nd December 2017 (register by 3rd November 2017)
an International Processing Fee of $38. 10th March 2018 (register by 9th February 2018)
5th May 2018 (register by 6th April 2018)
To register an account and book your seat for a test please
visit www.collegeboard.org ACT Test Dates:
9th December 2017 (register by 17th November 2017)
14th April 2018 (register by 23rd March 2018)
Please note: Testing of English as a Second Language may
9th June 2018 (register by 18th May 2018)
also be required for Apprentices who do not consider English
to be their first language. In addition the test often require Please consult the table on the following page to find your
candidates to use American spellings, language nearest venue. Some test centres do not provide a service on
and grammar. all of the test dates so early registration is recommended.
Overview – The ACT Test SAT Scores
The ACT test is another standardised test for college SAT consists of 2 major sections with each section receiving
admissions in the USA. You can undertake this test instead of a score on the scale of 200–800. This means that your overall
the SAT if you preferred, as both are equally reputable. SAT score could range between 400-1600 points.
The cost to register for the ACT Test is $46.50 + an
international testing fee of $47.50.
To book onto an ACT Test, or to learn more about the ACT,
please visit www.act.org
Did you know...
The current SAT
Test
consists of 2 se
ctions
and is scored o
ut of
1600.
10 American Scholarships Guide www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonlineSAT Centres
A number of venues across Great Britain host the SAT Reasoning Test, these include:
Testing Centre Town
Pestalozzi International Village Trust Battle
Brentwood School Brentwood, Essex
Bromsgrove School Bromsgrove
Wellington College Berkshire
Immanuel College Bushey, Hertfordshire
ACS Cobham International School Cobham, Surrey
ACS Hillingdon International School Hillingdon, Middlesex
Kingsdale Schoo London
Southbank International School London
London University College School London
EF International Academy Oxford
Sevenoaks School Sevenoaks
Concord College Shrewsbury
TASIS: The American School Surrey
Please note, not all centres offer all available test dates.
11 American Scholarships Guide www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonlineSports Scholarships
Overview
The process by which you could be considered for a sport a small number of large awards into a larger number of
scholarship can be a lengthy and complicated one. Unlike lesser-value awards. For example, a university that has
academic scholarships where you would simply submit an three 100% scholarships to offer per year may split them
application indicating an interest in receiving funding to up to award six 50% scholarships to twice the number of
study at a university, students must engage in a highly- student-athletes.
regulated recruitment process (please see below for
further details). Importantly, whilst playing for a college team a
scholarship can pay for the cost of earning an
Sport scholarships are granted by the university or undergraduate degree, you do not attend university
athletics association in which a university participates solely to play your sport. Students with sports
with athletic directors or coaches playing a central role scholarships must be working toward an undergraduate
in decision making. degree (in any field offered by the university). There are
no degrees in sports themselves, but students whose
Scholarships can be awarded for a number of different main interest is in sports can often take a degree in
sports including: American Football, Athletics, Baseball, exercise science, physical therapy or an allied field. For
Basketball, Rowing, Golf, Gymnastics, Ice Hockey, more information about choosing, applying for and other
Lacrosse, Swimming, Tennis and Football or as it is more funding opportunities related to US universities, please
commonly named in the US, Soccer. visit www.fulbright.org.uk
Scholarships are provided on a yearly basis, generally High school student-athletes in the US are somewhat at
renewable for four years which is the normal time an advantage to international students hoping to obtain
required to complete a US undergraduate degree. a sport scholarship as they will have had some level of
If you enter university with transfer credit or advanced exposure to college and university coaches at local,
standing, you will still be considered a first-year student regional and national competitions.
for sports scholarship purposes. Award amounts vary and Coupled with the fact that their coaches may have
can be anywhere from a few thousand dollars to $50,000 contacts within university programmes and university
for one academic year. It is very important to keep in mind scouts may be tracking their progress in the news or at
that sport scholarships do not necessarily cover the full competitions, engaging in the recruitment process to
cost of tuition and maintenance. Scholarships are often pursue their sport at the collegiate level can be somewhat
offered on a percentage basis (i.e. a 75% scholarship will more straightforward, and will certainly start earlier, than
cover 75% of the total cost of tuition fees for one year), for an international athlete.
and universities have strict limits on the total amount they
can award each year. Therefore, a university may split However, every year talented international students
are successful in receiving scholarships in a variety of
sports at a wide range of US universities every year. The
important thing to remember is, whichever avenue you
choose to take in the recruitment process, is that the
earlier you start and the more time you put in, the more
likely you are to achieve your goal.
Did you know...
provided on a
Scholarships are
erally renewable
yearly basis, gen al
r fo u r ye ar s w hich is the norm
fo
complete a US
time required to
degree.
undergraduate
12 American Scholarships Guide www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonlineHow to get a Scholarship
1. The DIY Scholarship
The first option is the ‘do-it-yourself’ approach, contacting 6. You may want to include a link to online video footage
university coaches directly to inform them of your interest in and a reference from a current or former coach in your
their programme and of your talent. To get started, you may correspondence with university coaches. (Make sure to
wish to follow the steps outlined below: provide the name and status of the coach providing the
reference in your cover letter).
1.
Visit the NCAA website (www.ncaa.org), or one of
the other athletic associations mentioned earlier, to 7. Register with the appropriate Eligibility Center. This is
view both the list of universities offering your sport an agency that provides initial eligibility certification
at the varsity level and the eligibility rules for being for prospective athletes, but is not a placement agency.
considered for a sport scholarship at their member It provides initial eligibility certification results to
universities. Determine whether you meet the eligibility colleges/universities that request the information.
criteria and make a list of universities to consider.
8.
With luck, you should receive responses from
2.
After identifying which universities offer your sport, universities within a few weeks. Some may invite you
you should then do some research into whether or not to submit a video of you participating in your sport,
that institution provides scholarships for athletes and others may send a recruiter to see you in action for your
what the criteria for selection are, both of which should club or invite you to visit their university.
be readily available on the athletic department’s
webpage for each university. At this point, it is also 9.
Receiving notice of a coach’s interest in you is a great
very important to do some research into the start, but you still need to apply for admissions to
qualifications and reputation of each coach as you the university through the same channels as other
want to ensure that you will be well-supported and students. So you will need to register for and sit the
receive good training within your sport during your SAT exam, as well as submit all required application
four years at university. materials by the deadlines set by each institution.
You may also wish to consider other factors that are
10. Throughout the process, keep in mind that students
important in choosing a university to help narrow down
who are interested in pursuing sport at the varsity level
your list.
in university should focus on the recruiting process
towards becoming a university athlete rather than a
3. Compile a list of contact information for the coaches at quest for funding through a sports scholarship. Sports
each university in which you are interested. scholarships are often offered only late in the recruiting
process.
4. Draft a CV that includes, academic, personal and
football accomplishments. Be sure to include teams
This includes the Ivy League and all NCAA Division III
played for, number of years, tournament/league results universities. Additionally, because receiving a sport
and or records held. You can request a template of scholarship is extremely competitive, you will also want
this type of CV from LFE’s Simon Williams via email: to look into other sources of funding and have fall back
swilliams@lfe.org.uk options for your undergraduate education, should you
not receive a scholarship from the universities you’ve
5. Write a letter/personal statement to the relevant coach selected, or choose to attend a university that cannot
at each institution that explains both your academic offer a sport scholarship.
and athletic abilities in terms that can be identified by
him or her (this is where the CV comes in as an easy
reference tool for athletic accomplishments).
CV
For more information on funding options, please visit
Undergraduate Study in the US – Finances section on
www.fulbright.org.uk
13 American Scholarships Guide www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonlineHow to get a Scholarship
2. Sports Scholarship Agencies
The second option is to work with a sport scholarship
agency or placement service to connect with US
universities actively seeking international student
athletes and offering scholarships. These organisations
will charge a fee for their assistance, but generally offer
a comprehensive service that can make navigating the
often complicated recruitment process clearer.
Students that choose to use an agency typically view
paying their fee as an investment in their expertise
and university contacts. However this does not always
guarantee a scholarship offer.
Please note LFE does have an agreement with a sport
scholarship agency and more information about this
can be found on page 15.
Other additional costs and things to consider are:
• International Medical Insurance
• Travel & Accommodation Costs
• Tuition Fees and The level of Scholarship offered
• Your eligibility
• Which institution you are offered a place at
• US Visa
Scholarship Ag
encies
Agencies can b
e
in navigating a useful
n
complicated sc often
ho
recruitment pro larship
cess.
14 American Scholarships Guide www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonlinePASS4Soccer
During 2013 LFE conducted a thorough assessment What the PASS4Soccer Programme covers:
process on sport scholarship agencies, who specifically
• Academic & Athletic Eligibility Assessment including, Grade
work on helping players obtain American Soccer
Point Average (GPA) calculations & SAT Test guidance
Scholarship and as a result formed a relationship with
www.pass4soccer.com who are now the only agency • Individual promotion to US coaches
LFE recommend.
• A Player profile directly accessed by US coaches with player
Recommended by the English Schools’ Football personal video highlights package
Association, PASS4Soccer have been helping students to • Access to Showcase events
gain soccer scholarships since 2002.
• E xtensive NCAA Eligibility Centre Advice and Knowledge
LFE has secured a significant discount for Apprentice
• University & Visa application assistance
players (£995 instead of a full cost of £1800) wishing to
access PASS4Soccer’s network of services – which covers • University specific suitability advice each individual
all aspects of gaining a scholarship as well as placement • University suitability based on academic/athletic ability
aftercare.
• Post placements support for duration of studies including
PASS4Soccer also operate a US Coach Showcase event post graduation assistance
each December which is timed to take advantage of
US Coaches having full budgets available to them for the
Why PASS4Soccer?
recruitment of prospective players. So if you’re thinking
about heading to the States start the process sooner • Vetted by LFE
rather than later to take advantage of this. • Extensive experience of securing scholarships and links
with US Coaches.
The Showcase which takes place in December at Bisham
Abbey National Sports Centre, is available to Apprentices • Generate increased number of scholarship offers and USA
(with club permission) and regularly attracts over 60 US university choices.
Universities, the majority attending from NCAA DI and
• First-hand experience of the American college and
NCAA DII Universities.
university system.
Getting into the system early will help you to promote • US based representative to help with all your needs.
your profile to those institutions and generate scholarship
offers sooner. • Instant email and telephone guidance available.
• Have assisted players who went onto be drafted into Major
In addition to the December Showcase, PASS4Soccer also
League Soccer and play in the English Football League.
hold an May Showcase alongside the LFE Assessment
Trials that is specifically for LFE Apprentices seeking • Alumni which consists of NCAA, NAIA and NJCAA
soccer scholarships. This event is an opportunity to find National Champions.
out detailed information about USA scholarships as well as
further exposure to recruiting coaches. If players or parents have any questions about studying
in the USA, please contact PASS4Soccer using the details
below and they will be happy to help:
Did you know...
gnificant Head Office
LFE has secured a si 0191 229 5236
tice
discount for Appren
d of a
players (£995 instea Daniel Gray
ishing
full cost of £1800) w
07763 749028
cer’s
to access PASS4Soc
Daniel@PASS4Soccer.com
network of servic es Danny Gibson
07810 830443
DGibson@PASS4Soccer.com
15 American Scholarships Guide www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonlineLFE and PASS4Soccer Event Cycle
LFE
Suggested
USA Guide PASS4Soccer
PASS4Soccer
published UK Showcase
sign up
on lfe.org.uk
SEP OCT NOV DEC Ideal
time
to sit
SAT
Test
AUG JAN
PASS4Soccer
YEAR ROUND
Assessment days
Presentation seminars
at individual clubs
JUL FEB
Regional seminars for
interested apprentices
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16 American Scholarships Guide www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonlinePFA Charity Grants
The PFA provide grant aid for a variety of courses to help
all members and ex-members of The PFA prepare for a
second career. Members studying at University outside
Did you know...
PFA
the UK can receive a £1250 bursary per year of study. Members of the
bursary
can apply* for a
ar to
of £1250 per ye
You will need to apply for this bursary at the start of
ion for
help in preparat
the academic year by contacting Pat Lally (Director
.
a second career
of Education) or Oshor Williams at PFA Education.
of writing
Tel: 0161 236 0637 *correct at time
Email: education@thepfa.co.uk
PFA Education
11 Oxford Court
Bishopsgate
Manchester
M2 3WQ
17 American Scholarships Guide www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonlineStories from the States
Luke Greaves
Former club: Accrington Stanley
Now: Manhattan College
“I’ve been playing well here. You come up against a lot more
athletic players compared to England. The American players
work hard and are all really athletic.
“I think a lot of people might think that the standard is not
as professional compared to clubs back home but soccer is
taken very seriously in Division 1 and standards are high.”
Greaves was a key performer for the Manhattan Jaspers
in his freshman year and used the summer to play in the
Premier Development League (PDL) for Portland Phoenix.
“The PDL is a summer league for players who are trying to
go pro, so it is a great stage for college players to impress
United Soccer League (USL) or Major League Soccer (MLS)
The powerful centre-back turned down the offer of a
scouts,” he added.
professional deal at Stanley just over a year ago.
“As a result, you are playing against some of the best college
“I chose to leave Accrington because I was thinking of my
players in the country. It also gives you the opportunity to do
long-term future. Taking the pro deal would have been great
a lot of travelling and I’ve seen a lot of great places whilst I
for a year or two, but the future wouldn’t have been solid.
have been here.”
I don’t know what I would’ve done if I hadn’t got another
contract,” he told Touchline. Greaves was an ever-present in a solid backline that was
ranked fifth out of the sixty-three teams involved, helping
Instead of staying at the Crown Ground, Greaves looked to
Portland to a play-off position after a 13-game unbeaten run.
the U.S. for opportunities to complement his football and
academic ambitions. While that journey ended in the Eastern Conference
Championship final with a 4-0 defeat to the New York Red
“I contacted LFE and they got my information out to American
Bulls, Greaves is determined to use it as a learning curve.
coaches, who then contacted me,” he continued.
“The PDL was a great experience. The most important thing
“I had my dream of being a professional in my hands but I
for me is that I have continued to develop during my time
turned it down because I wanted a future that I know I can
here while also having a lot of fun.”
rely on.”
Aside from football, Greaves the student adores the New
The six-foot defender initially struggled to adjust to his new
York City lifestyle.
surroundings and found the early stages tough.
“The best thing about this whole journey for me is living in
“The transition was difficult. The hardest thing is adapting
New York City. I just get on the subway outside school and
to the American culture and the changes in academic
I’m in Times Square in 30 minutes,” he said.
standards. I really struggled during my first semester at
college,” he said. “You can never get bored of this city; there is always
something happening. Now I never want to leave.
“It is a lot different from being at an English club in regards to
the balance of being focused on football and academics at “I missed home a lot during my first three months but after
the same time, which can be very challenging when there is going home for Christmas and then coming back it wasn’t a
a lot of work.” problem anymore. You realise the potential that’s here.
However, now into his second year, Greaves is thriving in his “My plan for the next few years is to keep working hard on
adopted home. and off the pitch and to see where it takes me whether
in football or a career in business in New York – the
“Once I became accustomed to the differences, I realised it
opportunities are endless”
was the best decision I’ve ever made.
18 American Scholarships Guide www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonlineStories from the States
Josh Thomas
Former club: Nottingham Forest
Now: Florida Institute of Technology (FIT)
While the lure of Disney draws many to Florida each year,
former Nottingham Forest apprentice, Josh Thomas’ presence
is rather more permanent and he’s applied his own sparkle in
a fairytale few months.
The 19-year old swapped Nottingham for the Sunshine State and
now studies and plays for Florida Institute of Technology (FIT).
The tricky winger spent ten years climbing through the age
groups at Forest but in the summer of 2013 then manager,
Billy Davies decided there was not enough room to
accommodate Thomas as a professional.
“I was devastated and left searching for an opportunity to show
my ability,” Thomas told Touchline.
“I trialled at Aston Villa, Derby County and West Brom but I
ended up at Worksop Town.
A spell under boss Mark Shaw provided the youngster with
experience of a non-league play-off final and a Young Player “I was given the number 7 shirt and asked to play wide right in
of the Year award. 4-2-3-1 formation which was new to me but I’ve loved every
second of it so far.”
“Mark knew how to get the best out of me and I found new
confidence in myself to push on.” FIT won all four of their preseason games with Thomas
contributing no less than five goals and five assists, a sign of
And that he did. With help from LFE, Thomas received a full
what lay ahead for him and the Panthers.
scholarship though the infamous SAT entry test almost proved
an unsurmountable barrier. “The season flew by, we finished second in our conference and
“I found it unbelievably hard but with the help of a private maths qualified for the NCAA Cup,” Thomas said.
tutor I hit the required mark on my second attempt. Then it “I scored in both the quarter and semi-finals to help us through
was just a case of arranging my visa, signing the contract and to the final against the hosts, Lynn University who are ranked
asking my Dad, nicely, to book a flight to Orlando.” 4th in the USA.
His life in the States started in August and he settled quickly. “In front of a partisan crowd, I hit one in to the stanchion from
“I was paired in residence with a 6ft 3in defender from 20 yards and as a team we battled to half-time at 2-2. They were
Gainesville called Zak. Next door are two Norwegians and awarded a penalty after the interval while we lost our chance to
one German, who have all also played for professional clubs,” progress to the Nationals there was no disgrace in losing 3-2.
continued Thomas. “My freshman experience has been indescribable and I’m
“Training is very similar to Forest, an early start every morning weighing-up four offers to play in the Premier Development
for two hours but in the heat of the sunshine which can be League next summer which I can’t wait for.”
hard and humid at times.” Thomas’ performances have earned him a string of accolades.
“We then eat breakfast together as a team before heading off He was named in the NCAA 2nd XI of the Year, in the NCAA
to class. I’m studying for a sports management degree. After Cup XI of the Year and most notably FIT Student Athlete of
class we train for another two hours. the Year.
“I couldn’t believe how amazing the facilities are, everything “I do miss things in the UK – family, friends, Mum’s Sunday
you can imagine, the coaches have helped me to settle into roast dinner and Jeff Stelling but if you’d asked me a year ago
my new life (they love the English) and the food is just like an about my future, I was unsure. I can safely say I now have a
all-inclusive hotel. There is so much choice and as much as direction and am living the dream,” he added.
you want!”
“This lifestyle has opened my eyes to a bigger world than I
The big challenge for Thomas was to cement a place in the realised was out there and I want to thank my family, Sean
starting eleven and show coaches Robin Chan, Ryan Moon England, Simon Williams, John Barton and Nick Marshall for
and Nick Robinson what he could bring to the side. helping to make that happen.”
19 American Scholarships Guide www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonlineUseful Contacts
College Board
www.collegeboard.org
Provides information tips on dates & fees, online registration,
SAT test preparation etc
The ACT
www.actstudent.org
An alternative to the SAT test
NCAA Eligibility Center
www.eligibilitycenter.org
This agency provides initial eligibility certification for
prospective NCAA athletes. It provides initial eligibility
certification results to colleges/universities that request
the information.
NAIA Eligibility Center
www.playnaia.org
PASS4Soccer
www.pass4soccer.com
20 American Scholarships Guide www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonlineLeague Football Education EFL House 10-12 West Cliff Preston PR1 8HU T 01772 326870 info@lfe.org.uk www.lfe.org.uk
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