We’re pleased to announce that FirstPoint USA client, Matthew McGlinchey, has committed to a soccer scholarship at Fairfield University, Connecticut. Mathew hails from Portsmouth, he has previously attended Oaklands Catholic School, and is currently completing his sixth form at Millfield School. Matthew kindly took the time to tell us a little about himself, and what he is most looking forward to about studying in the US.
Matthew has had a successful soccer career to date; he has represented Northern Ireland U17’s, gaining six caps in both international friendlies and tournaments; and was an academy soccer player at Southampton FC from the age of 8-16. Matthew has also had six caps for England’s Independent School Team, and has won Player of the Year for Millfield first XI team, two years in a row. Furthermore, Matthew has been captain of the first XI this season at Millfield, and during this time the team made it to two nationals, one of which they won. Despite having a lengthy list of soccer achievements, Matthew told us that his favourite sporting memory so far was winning the ESFA trophy at Donvaster Rovers’ ground during his last game for Millfield.
The decision to head out to the states to study is a big decision to make, but Matthew told us that he was enticed to doing so due to the opportunity to gain a top class degree, whilst also continuing to play soccer at an extremely high level.
With regards to the scholarship process, Matthew told us he found it difficult at first, but that the entire process was made easier by the team at FirstPoint USA. We asked Matthew why he chose to commit to Fairfield University; opposed to any of the other offers he received…
“I chose Fairfield due to how successful the team's been previously. Also, it's in a fantastic location and the academics are of a really high level.”
Out in the states, Matthew is looking forward to playing and training in a competitive and professional environment, where he will have the opportunity to take his game to the next level. Finally, we asked Matthew where he sees himself in 10 years time. He told us he hopes to be playing in Major League Soccer, but if not, would like to be living back in England and working in the soccer industry.
We wish Matthew the best of luck at Fairfield University, and will keep you updated on his progress out in the states through our various social media platforms.
