Youngsters will represent Limestone College Saints while studying for a master’s degree

Muswell Hill resident Joe Burke will head to the United States later this summer after accepting a scholarship at a college in South Carolina.

From August, Burke will be attending Limestone College in Gaffney, where he will combine studying for a master’s as well as playing for their football team, the Saints.

Burke will be based in the USA for the next two years, and received his scholarship with the help of PASS4Soccer Scholarships.

“I was offered an athletic scholarship by over 10 universities; however, I selected Limestone as they are one of the highest ranked and most successful teams,” said Burke.

“The team consistently qualifies for the NCAA National Tournament, which was a major factor contributing to my decision to select Limestone as I want to play at the highest level possible and compete for a national championship.

“I thoroughly enjoyed studying at the University of Chester and it was always my intention to further my education.

“However, I was reluctant to add to the debt I have already accumulated whilst earning my undergraduate degree.

“Pursuing a soccer scholarship in the US will allow me to achieve my goal of furthering my education without adding to my debt.

“An MBA from an American business school is held in high regard across the world and it will help me stand out from the crowd when looking for a job when I return to the UK.

“I’m most looking forward to experiencing the culture of southern USA and warm winters!”

PASS4Soccer Director Daniel Gray added, “Joe has shown great maturity throughout the process and performed well in PASS4Soccer events to build an impressive highlights video.

“After receiving numerous scholarship offers, Joe has made a great choice selecting Limestone College. I have visited the campus personally and the sports facilities there are really top drawer.”

Places in the PASS4Soccer Network Program are now available for students seeking to enter a US university soccer programme in August 2019 and 2020.

PASS4Soccer will be holding Information and Assessment Days in August, September and October.