American Scholarships - A guide for players, parents and guardians For entry in 2020 - LFE
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
lfe.org.uk American Scholarships A guide for players, parents and guardians For entry in 2020
Contents
3 Foreword 13 Entry Requirements
4 Soccer Scholarship Journey 13 Overview – The SAT Test
13 Overview – The ACT Test
5 Studying in the USA
13 Study Material
5 Thinking about studying in the USA?
14 SAT and ACT Dates
6 Why study in the USA?
14 SAT Scores
7 What course should I choose?
14 ACT Scores
8 Eligibility 15 SAT Centres
8 Are you eligible to study in the USA? 16 ACT Centres
9 Admissions Criteria
17 Sports Scholarships
9 Football Representation
17 Overview
10 Academic Performance
19 How to get a Scholarship
10 GCSEs and A Level Results Converter
22 PASS4Soccer
11 NCAA, NAIA and NJCAA
25 LFE and PASS4Soccer Event Cycle
12 Professional/Apprentice Eligibility
26 PFA Charity Grants
27 Stories from the States
31 Useful Contacts
2 American Scholarships lfe.org.uk
Foreword
Welcome to the guide to American Scholarships.
The purpose of this booklet is to offer practical
and independent advice to current and former
Apprentice footballers who are considering
taking up a soccer scholarship to study in
The United States of America.
In recent seasons a growing number of Apprentices have taken
advantage of the opportunity to start scholarships in America.
This booklet is designed to help you understand the background
and process involved in obtaining a scholarship. 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. If you require any
further guidance, please feel free to contact our Alumni Liaison
Officer on 01772 326875.
Sarah Stephen
Chief Executive
3 American Scholarships lfe.org.uk
Soccer Scholarship Journey
1 Eligibility Check 5 Highlighting your talent
It is important to understand whether you Contact coaches on your shortlist and send
are eligible to study and compete at USA out your CV and covering letter that explains
University level before you take any of the both your academic and soccer playing
below steps. Read the ‘Eligibility’ section abilities in terms that they understand. For
on page 8 in this guide and/or call LFE’s additional support see the PASS4Soccer
Progression Team on 01772 326875. section in Sports Scholarships on page 22.
2 Research 6 Using the Web for your advantage
Investigate which Universities & Colleges Individualise and strengthen your CV by
offer Men’s Soccer at Varsity level at offering coaches access to footage of you
www.ncaa.org, www.naia.org and in action.
www.njcaa.org
7 Initial Eligibility Clearing House (IECH)
Then check out who offers scholarships in Register with the appropriate IECH i.e.
Men’s Soccer by visiting individual University NCAA, NAIA to show prospective colleges/
and College athletic department web pages. universities that you are eligible to study at
3 USA University Entrance Exam their institution.
Register for and sit the SAT or ACT Test. 8 Visa
Remember to take advantage of the tips Once you have been offered a place your
and test preparation information available College/University will issue you with an
via www.collegeboard.org, www.act.org I-20 form (The document you need to apply
and www.fulbright.org.uk for is an F-1 student visa) and guidance on
4 Making your Selection applying for a Visa.
Obtain contact details for coaches at 9 Your new Journey begins
universities and colleges which offer soccer Once your Visa application has been
scholarships and match this list against approved book your flights and head across
institutions that you feel can help you fulfil the pond to start your new life as a scholar
your academic and personal aspirations. Then in the United States.
draw up your shortlist. i.e. make sure that the
institutions to which you are going to apply
offer a course you will want to major in.
4 American Scholarships lfe.org.uk
Studying in the USA Thinking about studying for a degree in the USA? You may now be starting to think for the first time about playing elite-level football in a different country and developing yourself as more than a footballer. This process in itself can be quite exciting as well as daunting. If you are considering going to University and playing football in The United States of America, it is important to explore the cultural differences that you may encounter and how studying in the USA fits within your long term personal development and career aims. When deciding what degree you would prefer to do, take the opportunity to see what career possibilities could follow from the subject you are interested in. 5 American Scholarships lfe.org.uk
Studying in the USA
Why study in the USA? 4 Have the flexibility to explore your
academic interests
Interested in heading to the USA to study? Generally speaking, the undergraduate
You’re in good company. Last year, over 10,000 curriculum in the US is quite flexible. It is
UK students chose the USA for undergraduate perfectly acceptable to be undecided about
study because it will allow you to: your major or field of study when applying
1 Choose from the wide range of universities to university. US universities teach under
on offer what is called the ‘liberal arts philosophy’.
There are over 4,500 US universities This means students take classes from
offering undergraduate degrees. a variety of subjects during the first 1–2
years of university study before specialising
2 Take advantage of funding opportunities in their major field. Students also have
Many students are able to fund their the option to complete a ‘double major’,
studies through scholarships from US degrees in two academic fields, which are
universities and external funding bodies. often completed within the normal four
Every year over 600 US universities years of study. Students may also earn a
offer international students scholarships minor qualification, which is awarded upon
of $20,000 or more. Scholarships can completing 3–5 classes in one field.
be offered on merit, financial need and
extracurricular achievement but you will 5 Internationalise and strengthen your CV
most likely be seeking a scholarship which When the Council for Industry and Higher
will be offered in recognition of your ability Education (CIHE) surveyed 230 major UK
to play soccer. recruiters, 65% of employers favoured
applicants with overseas work experience.
3 Experience American college life International students in the US have
US universities are known for their vibrant the opportunity to gain work experience
campus life, marked by a plethora of during their studies and to work in the US
opportunities for students to get involved for up to one year after graduation on the
on campus and in the community. There are Optional Practical Training scheme.
literally hundreds of student organisations,
athletic and campus events that allow 6 Travel in the US and learn about
students to pursue their interests in the another culture
arts, sport, leadership, voluntary service The US spans six time zones and has a
and more, all whilst getting their college great diversity in geography and culture.
degree. 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.
6 American Scholarships lfe.org.uk
Studying in the USA What course should I choose? At University in the USA, your ‘major’ is the In your second year as a Sophomore, you will main academic subject that you will study on complete the core curriculum and advance in your degree. It is your field of specialisation some subjects to the next level. At this point if during your undergraduate studies. You will you have decided on a major subject you may also be required to study a core curriculum. begin taking classes specific to that subject. Therefore unlike the UK system in your first However, you are not required to formally year (freshman) you will be required to study a declare a major until your third (Junior) year. compulsory core curriculum which may include Your third year or Junior year should see you Mathematics, Science, English, History, Logic commence the advanced coursework for your and Philosophy, but which also allows you to major, which will see you build up to your choose electives in subjects that interest you. fourth (Senior) year where you will complete This is also your chance to take introductory your undergraduate study and take your final courses in what you hope will become your exams. main subject of study (known as your major). 7 American Scholarships lfe.org.uk
Eligibility
Are you eligible to study in the USA?
Athletic associations govern college sports and set rules regarding scholarships and athletic
recruitment. There are a number of associations that colleges or universities can join, most notably:
ational Collegiate Athletic
N Junior colleges act as a good entry point
Association (NCAA) to the US collegiate system. They can help
There are over 1200 member players without sufficient grades to study in
universities and colleges classified the USA prior to gaining entry to a NCAA/
within three NCAA divisions NAIA school.
(Divisions I and II being the most
competitive). Athletic standards are Students hoping to be considered for a sports
high and the level of competition scholarship must meet normal university/
is intense. Only students with the college entrance requirements (published on
very highest standard of ability tend the university admissions page) and continue
to be recruited. (www.ncaa.org) to obtain satisfactory grades at university in
order to receive and retain their scholarships.
ational Association of
N As a guideline, various sporting authorities
Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) have set their own minimum academic
There are around 350, mostly requirements for competing students.
smaller colleges in the NAIA,
organised by districts. Many NAIA
colleges have excellent sports
programmes and may offer some
sports scholarships. The level of
athletic ability is still high, although
the standard is not set as high as
for NCAA Division I teams.
(www.naia.org)
ational Junior College Athletic
N
Association (NJCAA)
Member colleges are accredited
two-year institutions. The NJCAA
is comprised of two divisions.
Division I colleges may offer full
scholarships, whereas Division III
do not offer scholarships.
(www.njcaa.org).
8 American Scholarships lfe.org.uk
Eligibility
Admissions Criteria
As a general rule, US universities will expect to
see a similar type of qualification and results as
British universities of a similar level of prestige
and competitiveness.
As a minimum requirement for four-
year Bachelor’s degrees, you should have
completed at least five GCSEs at grade
C/4 or above (or five Scottish Standard
Grades), including English and Maths, plus be
completing or have completed a post age 16
qualification. A small number of high ranking
academic universities will require A Levels for
entry. Students aspiring to very high academic
universities are recommended to research their
individual requirements.
If you have completed your BTEC and
your NVQ during your apprenticeship, you
are eligible to apply to almost all NCAA
universities. However, certain universities
in the states will prefer those that have
completed their extended diploma.
Call LFE’s Progression Team on 01772 326874
for more details on this.
Football Representation
Signing an agreement with an agency or
agent to represent you and support your
football career can result in loss of eligibility
for entering a scholarship in the USA. You
should consider this before entering into any
agreement and if you seek advice or guidance
relating to representation then you should
contact The PFA on 0161 236 0575.
9 American Scholarships lfe.org.uk
Eligibility
Academic Performance
Your academic abilities will be evaluated in the
first instance by your GCSE results and or your
predicted A Level/BTEC results.
However, your academic aptitude will also
be assessed through your performance on
admissions tests. Admissions tests are used
as a common denominator to compare
applications from different US states (there is
no national curriculum) and different countries.
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 between US and UK marks. Instead,
US university admissions officers either
evaluate international credentials internally or
require that students use an external credential GCSEs and A Level Results
evaluator. On the right-hand side is a chart Converter
displaying approximate grade conversions that
may be useful in determining competitiveness UK Numerical US Letter US Grade
for admission and funding. Grade Grade Point Average
American universities may use this Grade Point 7, 8, 9 A 4.0
Average to help them form an opinion of an
applicant’s academic strength. Please note, 5 or 6 B 3.0
if you are applying to go to the US, Fulbright
does not recommend converting your UK 4 C 2.0
grades in to US scores on your application.
1, 2 or 3 D 0
Your UK results should be submitted in their
original format.
10 American Scholarships lfe.org.ukEligibility
National Collegiate National Junior College
Athletic Association Athletic Association
(NCAA) (NJCAA)
• Five or more different academic subject Talented individuals who do not qualify
passes at GCSE grades 9-3 or Scottish for either of the above may be able to gain
Standard grades 1–7 including maths, English, admission to a junior college. Each college will
science and social studies (history, geography set its own entrance requirements.
etc.) with an overall average of grade ‘4’. NJCAA colleges in general do not have a
• The NCAA applies a sliding scale for the minimum passing score for the SAT although
minimum SAT scores that are required for individual colleges may set one.
acceptance to NCAA Division I colleges. This
will depend on your average academic grade.
The higher your average academic grade is,
the lower the minimum SAT score required.
The higher your average academic grade is, the
lower the minimum SAT score required.
National Association of
Intercollegiate Athletics
(NAIA)
A ‘4’ grade average overall in GCSE subjects,
Scottish Standards, or an alternative
qualification such as GNVQ or GSVQ if the
school authorities can confirm your marks
were in the ‘Top Half’ of the class.
You should aim for a minimum score of 22
on the ACT or 960 on the SAT (if you take
the SAT more than once, combining scores IS
acceptable) to compete at a NAIA institution.
11 American Scholarships lfe.org.ukEligibility Professional/Apprentice Eligibility If looking to attend an NCAA governed All entries to Universities/Colleges will go University and you have been a professional through to the governing body’s clearing house footballer then you could still be eligible. who will determine your eligibility. However, spending more than a year out of Each application is dealt with on an individual formal education or earning wages/bonuses basis and not always uniformly. As such there above the set threshold will make you have been cases where some players have ineligible. received bans restricting their ability to play for Completing your BTEC and NVQ ensures their University soccer team. you are eligible to go to university in America In addition in certain cases bans have been without ‘topping up’ your education. imposed on some former Apprentices but As long as you don’t receive more than the not others that are in attendance at the same financial threshold playing for a football club University. in that gap year then you should retain your All former Apprentices should note that NCAA eligiblity. Universities/Colleges apply stricter criteria to Please note, if you continue formal education entry in to their programmes. after your Apprenticeship then this may LFE recommends you seek free eligibility extend the deadline for you to start US advice from PASS4Soccer on 0191 229 5236. University. It is important to seek advice about the above because eligibility is complicated and should not be assumed. 12 American Scholarships lfe.org.uk
Entry Requirements
Overview – The SAT Test Overview – The ACT Test
The SAT Test, also known as SAT Reasoning The ACT test is another standardised test
Test, is a standardised test for college for college admissions in the USA. You can
admissions in the USA. The SAT is owned, undertake this test instead of the SAT if you
published, and developed by the College preferred, as both are equally reputable.
Board, a non-profit organisation in the USA. The cost to register for the ACT Test is $150.
The College Board claims the test can assess a
student’s readiness for college. To book onto an ACT Test, or to learn more
about the ACT, please visit www.act.org
The current SAT test consists of two main
sections (Math and Evidence-Based Reading Study Material
& Writing), whilst there is also an optional
www.KhanAcademy.org/SAT
essay which a small number of universities may
is the college board recommended study
also require.
material.
The cost to register for the SAT Reasoning Test
is $90.50.
To register an account and book your seat for
a test please visit www.collegeboard.org
Please note: Testing of English as a Second Language may
also be required for Apprentices who do not consider
English to be their first language. In addition the test often
require candidates to use American spellings, language
and grammar.
13 American Scholarships lfe.org.ukEntry Requirements
SAT and ACT Dates SAT Scores
SAT and ACT Reasoning Tests are run at a SAT consists of two major sections, with each
variety of centres across the country. There is section receiving a score on the scale of 200-
generally a requirement to pre-register for these 800. This means that your overall SAT score
tests at least six weeks prior to the test date: could range between 400-1600 points.
SAT Test Dates: ACT Scores
5th October 2019 ACT consists of two major sections. A student’s
(register by 6th September 2019) composite ACT score is the average of the
7th December 2019 student’s scaled scores in four multiple-choice
(register by 8th November 2019)* test sections, with 36 being the highest possible
14th March 2020 score, while the writing test score ranges from
(register by 14th February 2020) 1 to 36.
2nd May 2020
It is possible to register for the SAT or ACT Tests after the
(register by April 2020) registration deadlines have passed. Specific terms can be
* Saturday 7th December 2019 will be cleared of EFL found on the SAT/ACT website.
Youth Alliance fixtures to allow apprentices to register for
the SAT exam which takes place that day.
ACT Test Dates:
13th & 14th December 2019
(register by 1st November 2019)
7th & 8th February 2020
(register by 3rd January 2020)
3rd & 4th April 2020
(register by 28th February 2020)
12th & 13th June 2020
(register by 1st May 2020)
Please consult the tables on the following
pages to find your nearest venue. Some
test centres do not provide a service on
all of the test dates so early registration is
recommended.
14 American Scholarships lfe.org.ukEntry Requirements SAT Centres A number of venues across Great Britain host the SAT Reasoning Test, these include: Test Locations in England ACS Cobham Intl School, Cobham-Surrey, KT111BL Norwich School, Norfolk, NR1 4DD ACS Egham International School, Surrey, TW20 0H5 Radley College, Oxon, OX14 2HR ACS Hillingdon, Middlesex, UB10 0BE Shrewsbury School, SY3 7BA Ampleforth College, York, YO62 4ER Southbank International School, London, WT1 6BN Ashville College, N.Yorkshire, HG2 9JP St Clare’s, Oxford, OX2 7AL Ashwicke Hall School, Chippenham, SN14 8AG Sussex Coast College Hastings, East Sussex, TN34 1BA Bishop Wordsworth School, Hampshire, SP1 2ED TASIS, Thorpe, Surrey, TW20 8TE Canford School, Dorset, BH21 3AD Taunton School, Taunton Somerset, TA2 6LH CATS College, Dover, CT1 3LQ The Kings School Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2ES Concord College, Acton, Shrewsbury, SY5 7PF Tyne Metropolitan College, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE28 9NL EF Academy, Torquay, TQ1 3BG University College School, North West London, NW3 6XH Florence Educational College, Leicester, LE4 6BT Victoria College, Jersey, JE1 4HT Gresham School, Holt, Norfolk, NR25 6EA Wellington College, Berkshire, RG45 7PU Int School London, IB Diploma College, W5 3XD Whitgift School, Croydon, CR2 6Y2 Malvern College, Malvern Worcestershire, WR14 3DF Withington Girls School, Manchester, M14 6BL Malvern St James, Malvern, WR14 3BA Wycliffe College, Gloucester, GL10 2JQ Millfield School, Street, Somerset BA16 0YD 15 American Scholarships lfe.org.uk
Entry Requirements ACT Centres Test Locations in England PSI Birmingham PSI Newcastle Blackburn Computer Training Portal Norwich F1 Training PSI Coventry Nottingham Computer Training Portal PSI Croydon PSI Oxford PSI Exeter PSI Plymouth PSI Ilford PSI Portsmouth PSI Leicester Preston Academy of English PSI Liverpool PSI Sheffield London Computer Learning Centre TASIS: The American School London Iranian Association The Kings School Canterbury London M2M Watford Computer Training Portal Luton Computer Training Portal Wellington College, Berkshire Marlborough College, Wiltshire Kings School, Bruton PSI Manchester Newport- Integrated Learning Centre 16 American Scholarships lfe.org.uk
Sports Scholarships
Overview
The process by which you could be If you enter university with transfer credit or
considered for a sport scholarship can be a advanced standing, you will still be considered
lengthy and complicated one. Unlike academic a first-year student for sports scholarship
scholarships where you would simply submit purposes.
an application indicating an interest in Award amounts vary and can be anywhere
receiving funding to study at a university, from a few thousand dollars to $50,000 for
students must engage in a highly-regulated one academic year. It is very important to
recruitment process (please see below for keep in mind that sport scholarships do not
further details). necessarily cover the full cost of tuition and
Sport scholarships are granted by the maintenance. Scholarships are often offered
university or athletics association in which a on a percentage basis (i.e. a 75% scholarship
university participates with athletic directors will cover 75% of the total cost of tuition
or coaches playing a central role in decision fees for one year), and universities have strict
making. limits on the total amount they can award
Scholarships can be awarded for a number of each year. Therefore, a university may split
different sports including: American Football, a small number of large awards into a larger
Athletics, Baseball, Basketball, Rowing, Golf, number of lesser-value awards. For example,
Gymnastics, Ice Hockey, Lacrosse, Swimming, a university that has three 100% scholarships
Tennis and Football or as it is more commonly to offer per year may split them up to award
named in the US, Soccer. six 50% scholarships to twice the number of
student-athletes.
Scholarships are provided on a yearly basis,
generally renewable for four years which is
the normal time required to complete a US
undergraduate degree.
17 American Scholarships lfe.org.ukSports Scholarships Overview Importantly, whilst playing for a college team a scholarship can pay for the cost of earning an undergraduate degree, you do not attend university solely to play your sport. Students with sports scholarships must be working toward an undergraduate degree (in any field offered by the university). There are a wide range of courses available, including those with a sport focus, such as exercise science, physical therapy, administration, marketing, etc. For more information about choosing, applying for and other funding opportunities related to US universities, please visit www.fulbright.org.uk High school student-athletes in the US are somewhat at an advantage to international students hoping to obtain a sport scholarship as they will have had some level of exposure to college and university coaches at local, regional and national competitions. Coupled with the fact that their coaches may have contacts within university programmes and university scouts may be tracking their progress in the news or at competitions, engaging in the recruitment process to pursue their sport at the collegiate level can be somewhat more straightforward, and will certainly start earlier, than for an international athlete. 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. 18 American Scholarships lfe.org.uk
Sports Scholarships
How to get a Scholarship
The DIY Scholarship
The first option is the ‘do-it-yourself’ 3 Compile a list of contact information for
approach, contacting university coaches the coaches at each university in which
directly to inform them of your interest in you are interested.
their programme and of your talent. To get 4 Draft a CV that includes, academic,
started, you may wish to follow the steps personal and football accomplishments. Be
outlined below: sure to include teams played for, number
1 Visit the NCAA website (www.ncaa.org), of years, tournament/league results and or
or one of the other athletic associations records held. You can request a template
mentioned earlier, to view both the list of this type of CV from LFE’s Simon
of universities offering your sport at the Williams via email: swilliams@lfe.org.uk
varsity level and the eligibility rules for 5 Write a letter/personal statement to the
being considered for a sport scholarship relevant coach at each institution that
at their member universities. Determine explains both your academic and athletic
whether you meet the eligibility criteria abilities in terms that can be identified by
and make a list of universities to consider. him or her (this is where the CV comes
2 After identifying which universities in as an easy reference tool for athletic
offer your sport, you should then do accomplishments).
some research into whether or not that 6 You may want to include a link to
institution provides scholarships for online video footage and a reference
athletes and what the criteria for selection from a current or former coach in your
are, both of which should be readily correspondence with university coaches.
available on the athletic department’s (Make sure to provide the name and status
webpage for each university. At this of the coach providing the reference in
point, it is also very important to do your cover letter).
some research into the qualifications and
reputation of each coach as you want to 7 Register with the appropriate Eligibility
ensure that you will be well-supported and Center. This is an agency that provides
receive good training within your sport initial eligibility certification for prospective
during your four years at university. athletes, but is not a placement agency.
It provides initial eligibility certification
You may also wish to consider other results to colleges/universities that request
factors that are important in choosing a the information.
university to help narrow down your list.
19 American Scholarships lfe.org.ukSports Scholarships
How to get a Scholarship
The DIY Scholarship
8 With luck, you should receive responses
from universities within a few weeks.
Some may invite you to submit a video
of you participating in your sport, others
may send a recruiter to see you in action
For more information on
for your club or invite you to visit their funding options, please visit
university. Undergraduate Study in the
9 Receiving notice of a coach’s interest in US - Finances section on
you is a great start, but you still need to www.fulbright.org.uk
apply for admissions to the university
through the same channels as other
students. So you will need to register for
and sit the SAT exam, as well as submit
all required application materials by the
deadlines set by each institution.
10 Throughout the process, keep in mind that
students who are interested in pursuing
sport at the varsity level in university should
focus on the recruiting process towards
becoming a university athlete rather
than a quest for funding through a sports
scholarship. Sports scholarships are often
offered only late in the recruiting process.
This includes the Ivy League and all NCAA
Division III universities. Additionally,
because receiving a sport scholarship is
extremely competitive, you will also want to
look into other sources of funding and have
fall back options for your undergraduate
education, should you not receive a
scholarship from the universities you’ve
selected, or choose to attend a university
that cannot offer a sport scholarship.
20 American Scholarships lfe.org.ukSports Scholarships
How to get a Scholarship
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 22.
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
21 American Scholarships lfe.org.ukSports Scholarships PASS4Soccer During 2013 LFE conducted a thorough The Showcase which takes place in December assessment process on sport scholarship is available to Apprentices (with club agencies, who specifically work on helping permission) and regularly attracts large players obtain American Soccer Scholarship number of Universities, the majority attending and as a result formed a relationship with from NCAA DI and NCAA DII Universities. www.pass4soccer.com who are now the Getting into the system early will help you to only agency LFE recommend. promote your profile to those institutions and Recommended by the English Schools’ generate scholarship offers sooner. Football Association, PASS4Soccer have been In addition to the December Showcase, helping students to gain soccer scholarships PASS4Soccer also hold an May Showcase since 2002. alongside the LFE Assessment Trials that LFE has secured a significant discount is specifically for LFE Apprentices seeking for Apprentice players (£1,250 instead of soccer scholarships. This event is an a full cost of £2,000) wishing to access opportunity to find out detailed information PASS4Soccer’s network of services – which about USA scholarships as well as further covers all aspects of gaining a scholarship as exposure to recruiting coaches. well as placement aftercare. PASS4Soccer also operate a US Coach Showcase event each December which is timed to take advantage of US Coaches having full budgets available to them for the recruitment of prospective players. So if you’re thinking about heading to the States start the process sooner rather than later to take advantage of this. 22 American Scholarships lfe.org.uk
Sports Scholarships PASS4Soccer What the PASS4Soccer Programme covers: Why PASS4Soccer? • Academic & Athletic Eligibility Assessment • Vetted by LFE including, Grade Point Average (GPA) • Extensive experience of securing calculations & SAT Test guidance scholarships and links with US Coaches. • Individual promotion to US coaches • Generate increased number of scholarship • A Player profile directly accessed by offers and USA university choices. US coaches with player personal video • First-hand experience of the American highlights package college and university system. • Access to Showcase events • US based representative to help with all • Extensive NCAA Eligibility Centre Advice your needs. and Knowledge • Instant email and telephone guidance • University & Visa application assistance available. • University specific suitability advice each • Have assisted players who went onto be individual drafted into Major League Soccer and play • University suitability based on academic/ in the English Football League. athletic ability • Alumni which consists of NCAA, NAIA and • Post placements support for duration of NJCAA National Champions. studies including post graduation assistance 23 American Scholarships lfe.org.uk
Sports Scholarships USA Tour PASS4Soccer also host a US Tour each March that has been attended by LFE Apprentices. The next tour will take place from 16th – 24th March 2020 in Orlando, Florida, where the players will have the opportunity to play against and visit various universities in the surrounding area. This provides an excellent opportunity to sample the university level in the USA and receive further exposure. Julie Keogh, mother of former Leeds United Apprentice Matt Keogh, who attended the US Tour said: “A great way to see if it is for you is to take part in the PASS4Soccer US Tour, where you can play top university sides and visit university campuses to see the unbelievable facilities. Our son Matthew did just that and is now studying a four- year scholarship at UNC Charlotte in North Carolina.” Apprentices should contact PASS4Soccer directly to find out more and confirm availability as spaces are limited. 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: Claire Scragg 0191 229 5236 David Ebberson 07498 321483 debberson@pass4soccer.com Danny Gibson 07810 830443 dgibson@PASS4Soccer.com 24 American Scholarships lfe.org.uk
LFE and PASS4Soccer Event Cycle
OCT NOV
Register before
Suggested
8th November
PASS4Soccer
for December
sign up
DE
P
SAT Test
SE
C
LFE PASS4Soccer
USA Guide UK Showcase
published on Ideal time to
lfe.org.uk sit SAT Test
PASS4Soccer
AUG
JAN
YEAR ROUND
Assessment days
EFL club visits
and presentations
Regional seminars for
interested apprentices
Opportunity to
Visits/consultation with sit ACT Test
FEB
JUL
players & parents’
Opportunity to
Opportunity to sit SAT Test
sit ACT Test PASS4Soccer
USA Tour
Opportunity to
sit SAT Test
AR
JU
Opportunity to
M
N
PASS4Soccer sit ACT Test
LFE-exclusive
UK Showcase
MAY APR
25 American Scholarships lfe.org.ukPFA 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 the UK can receive a £1250 bursary per year of study. You will need to apply for this bursary at the start of the academic year by contacting Pat Lally (Director of Education) or Oshor Williams at PFA Education. Tel: 0161 236 0637 Email: education@thepfa.co.uk PFA Education 11 Oxford Court Bishopsgate Manchester M2 3WQ 26 American Scholarships lfe.org.uk
Stories from the States
Dan Bent
Former club: Gillingham
U.S. College: Wright State University
In the space of three years, you’re a student first and a
Dan Bent went from being player second. The first few
released by Gillingham at the weeks were tiring as you try
end of his apprenticeship to to adjust to the schedule of
being listed as the 84th best classes and practices, but it
college player in the country quickly becomes the norm.”
and second in the Horizon Bent’s ambition to maximise
League conference by Top his potential led to him
Drawer Soccer. transferring to Wright State
With help from Pass4Soccer, University after his freshman
he embarked on a soccer year, where he has flourished
scholarship at Reinhardt on the pitch.
University in Georgia and He said: “My first school was
has enjoyed a stellar stay in small, only around 3,000
the States. students. Moving to Wright
“I was always prepared for State, with a bigger campus
an alternative option,” Bent and over 18,000 students,
told LFE. “Initially, I was was a big change. But the
disappointed when I knew I life of a student athlete is
wasn’t going to get a contract, great. You wake up, have
but having other options your classes in the morning,
meant I did not dwell on it practice in the afternoon and
and instead I already had a relax at night.
new pathway to look forward “The standard on the pitch is
to. Naturally, I had some very high, with players from
"There is the fears, but I knew it would all over the world sharing the
opportunity to be a great option for me to same goal. I’ve played with
progress my career continue my career. and against players who came
and become a “It’s not much different to from Premier League clubs
professional" being an apprentice back and players who have played
home, except for the fact that at the top tier in their country.
27 American Scholarships lfe.org.ukStories from the States
“Just like back home, every Bent continued: “The PDL is “Over the past couple of
team has its identity, whether a great way to keep yourself years, I think it has helped me
they are a long ball style team fit over the summer and it become much more confident
or a possession-based team. is where the majority of the on and off the pitch.
It can depend on the school best players from college play. “In many classes you have
you’re at but many schools Testing myself against the best to speak in crowds and do
over here could give teams a is always fun as I know the presentations, so you are able
test back home.” benchmark of where I am at to transfer that confidence
The 6ft 1in centre-back and where I need to be. into your football, whether
has been a major success “It is great to have players that is speaking to the team
in Ohio, contributing to before me with so much or doing interviews. Majoring
Wright State Raiders’ first talent get drafted. I am able in Organizational Leadership
ever Horizon League regular to see what needs to be done will allow me to hopefully
season title and earning and learn from their mistakes. pursue a career in coaching.
multiple individual accolades, It gives me great inspiration. “If I had any advice for
including being named to “That’s the great part about the current apprentices, I
the First Team All-Horizon the US, as not only will I would recommend the
League, Second Team Great come away with an education need to be open-minded
Lakes Region Team and First having played full-time in every situation. Be your
Team All-Ohio Team, as well football, but also there is own person and don’t do
as receiving the Horizon the opportunity to progress something because others
League Defensive Player of my career and become a wouldn’t.
the Year award. professional.”
“Be the best person you can
And his hopes of an extended Bent has not restricted his be on and off the pitch as you
playing career have been efforts to the playing aspect, never know who you might
boosted by a successful becoming one of 99 Wright meet or bump into. Don’t feel
stint in the Professional State student athletes to be that because things did not
Development League for placed on the 2018 Spring turn out how you wanted to,
South Carolina United Horizon League Academic that it is the end. It is just the
Bantams, plus seeing three Honor Roll to celebrate beginning. There are so many
of his former Raiders team- achievements in the ways to still play and enjoy
mates get drafted by Major classroom. the game more than ever.”
League Soccer clubs New “I wanted to try my best
York City, Seattle Sounders and really apply myself
and Colorado Rapids, academically,” said Bent.
respectively.
28 American Scholarships lfe.org.ukStories from the States
Javen Palmer
Former club: Crystal Palace
U.S. College: Georgia State University
“A former coach of mine the time management aspect
had mentioned America as of it, it becomes easier to
a possibility. I didn’t decide handle. Once you learn about
until around September, how to format essays and
having recovered from a torn how to answer test questions,
meniscus and been on a few it becomes second nature.
trials at some lower league “My major is in Sports
teams. The idea of going to Administration, which
the USA and playing full-time encompasses the whole
football, in addition to getting sports industry really.
a degree, just made perfect
sense to me.” “You learn about the
business side and the
The student-athlete lifestyle coaching side. It covers
means there is a strong contract laws, sports
emphasis on education. marketing, sports finance,
Palmer embraced his event planning, event
Having been released by classroom responsibilities,
Crystal Palace in 2014, Javen management and many other
earning a place on the subjects.
Palmer spent six months Dean’s List and twice on the
on trial at various clubs President’s List at Georgia “Some people may find it
before deciding to take on State, which celebrate high harder than others, but
the challenge of a Soccer academic performance. education is always in your
Scholarship in the USA at control. You can control
Farleigh Dickinson University “I’d say to any apprentice to how much you study, how
in New Jersey, while he then make sure they are doing prepared you are for a test, or
transferred to the renowned their best, even if it isn’t what how much you research for
Georgia State University for they necessarily want to an essay.”
his final two years. focus on,” he said. “You need
to put yourself in the best Palmer has also been
“I had been at Palace from the position and it is important to receptive to learning away
age of 8, so I had never really have good grades when you from the classroom, using the
faced any rejection before,” decide you are going to go to frequent travel opportunities
he told LFE. “It was definitely America. to explore new cultures and
a difficult time. I wasn’t sure increase his knowledge of
what was next but I felt that as “There is a lot of work to do, American history.
one door closes another opens. but once you get to grips with
29 American Scholarships lfe.org.ukStories from the States He added: “For the games, expensive, so doing this work “At the start of the process, all we do a lot of travelling and helps to give children the of my focus was on football I have been to a lot of places opportunity to play the game. and trying to become a on the East Coast. I’ve been to It’s also good for me as I get to professional. Now that I am New York City, Philadelphia, interact with different people, on the other end of this four- Rhode Island, Connecticut, learn some administrative year process, I now see that Alabama, Mississippi, New skills and gain experience in a there is so much more to life Orleans and more, so I have working environment.” after football, and maximising managed to see places that I The former Eagles apprentice that part of life is going to be would never have envisioned. admitted he has discovered important. “New Orleans was definitely the importance of developing “I think that some young pros the best trip that I went on. I on and off the field during his do not realise that they have got to try the local food and time in the States and advised a lot of time on their hands. got involved in the Mardi Gras current apprentices to be Training is actually a small celebration. Atlanta has a lot aware that they can have an window of your day. Focus on of history and Georgia as a identity outside of football. your football, do extra training state has great history with “Four years have flown by,” on your own. But when that regards to the Civil Rights he said. “The opportunity to is all done, you can use your movement. Martin Luther train everyday has definitely hours to better yourself in King Jr’s home is in Atlanta made me a better player. We other ways. and they have a museum basically live like professionals “Learn about another industry, dedicated to him, which is here. As a person, I’d say don’t close yourself off to really interesting. I have just become a lot opportunities. Some lads “I am currently working at a more socially conscious and don’t realise they are more non-profit organisation called informed. I’ve definitely than just footballers. I didn’t Soccer in the Streets. We do grown as an individual. understand that until about great work for disadvantaged “Living in London can keep you two years ago. It took me to youth in Atlanta. I help to inside a small bubble, so this get to 21, and being out of schedule tournaments, handle was definitely an experience full-time football for three budgets, recruit corporate that I will look back on years, to really understand sponsors and handle with fond memories. The that I am more than just a community engagement experience has allowed me player. Lads should explore efforts. to make friends for life and options that will better them “Football in America is not enhance my skills and traits, as individuals.” accessible to everyone while also working on my because the fees to play are weaknesses. 30 American Scholarships lfe.org.uk
Useful Contacts
College Board NCAA Eligibility Center NAIA Eligibility Center
www.collegeboard.org www.eligibilitycenter.org www.playnaia.org
Provides information tips This agency provides initial PASS4Soccer
on dates & fees, online eligibility certification for www.pass4soccer.com
registration, SAT test prospective NCAA athletes.
preparation etc. It provides initial eligibility
certification results to
The ACT colleges/universities that
www.actstudent.org request the information.
An alternative to the SAT test.
31 American Scholarships lfe.org.ukLeague Football Education EFL House T 01772 326870 10-12 West Cliff E info@lfe.org.uk Preston PR1 8HU lfe.org.uk
You can also read
