Jersey's young footballers are being offered the 'American dream'

Wednesday, 30 October 2024 12:42

A soccer talent agency is in the island looking to offer young footballers a scholarship to study while playing in the US.

Sixteen93 is visiting Jersey to find 15 to 19-year-olds who want a future playing football.

Young hopefuls are invited to an event on 1 November to learn more about what is on offer.

Co-founder of the agency, Kristian Moore-Cowell says people can combine full-time football with further education.

"In the UK, unfortunately when you get to the age of 18 or 19, you finish college or sixth form and unless you sign a professional contract, it does get to that point where a lot of people have to make the decision whether they want to take their academics more seriously, or their football more seriously.

"So, if it's academics it might be going to a UK university and your football or sport taking a bit more of a backseat for that, and it's something you do that's a bit more sociable.

"The US is completely different, you are able from the ages of 18 to 22 or 23 and not have a massive emphasis on just the football OR the academics, but a big emphasis on both."

Inter Miami Credit: Sky Sports

Sixteen93 claims college sports is a multi-billion dollar industry, with many universities looking for new talent to take them to the top.

Sports scholarships are often handed out across the pond to attract rising stars and renowned athletes to play for their universities.

The co-founder continues:

"You can combine being a full-time soccer player or footballer at a university, as well as getting a full-time university degree."

Islanders who are interested in taking up the opportunity are invited to Springfield Stadium from 5.45 pm and should contact kristian@sixteen93.com for more information.