Gary's Scholarship Success Hits The Headlines!

We're pleased to see recent soccer scholarship recipient, Gary Giffin, has been featured in the East Kilbride News!   From the article: The American dream beckons for Westwood footballer Gary Giffin after he signed a four-year soccer scholarship at Midland University. The 18-year-old will head out to Nebraska on July 17 to embark on his journey towards becoming a professional footballer with the FirstPoint USA programme. And the central midfielder, who has played for Rangers and Ayr United boys’ clubs, revealed he turned down a host of offers from other institutions in New York and South Carolina in favour of the team in America’s heartland. He told the News: “I had offers from a number of colleges throughout the US, but I’m really glad I chose Midland. “I had an offer from Feather River College in Quincy, California one from USC Salkehatchie in South Carolina and one from Munroe College in New York. But I choose Fremont, Nebraska because I met with Midland’s Craig Hughes down in London to speak about a deal and he made a real impression. Craig told me about Midland and the way they treat their players. It’s out of this world. “To me, Midland is like a professional team and the facilities they have are second to none – apparently a lot better than all the Scottish Premier League teams. Sean Fraser, the head coach at Midland, has been very good to me and thinks very highly of me so I can’t wait to get started.” The former Duncanrig Secondary School pupil was recommended to FirstPoint USA by his coach at Rangers, and Gary was soon playing in trial games before passing the interview stage with flying colours. He was then offered a four-year deal and can’t wait to get started this summer. He added: “I was so proud when I was offered the contract. “It’s what I have always wanted to do – and now it’s real. I am most looking forward to progressing in my soccer career, traveling America, meeting new people and taking on new challenges. But being treated like a professional footballer will be a big thing for me, too. It’s a very big step but it’s one I’m thriving on. I think I will cope well with all the challenges this will throw at me and although I’m sure I’ll get a bit homesick, that’s just something I’ll have to deal with. “In the next four years, I hope to achieve great things, get noticed as a college player in the States and make a name for myself by helping Midland win titles. After those four years, the ultimate goal is to play professional soccer . “I want to thank my mum and dad, who have stuck by me my whole life in football for helping me get to this stage. “And I also I want to thank Sean Fraser and Craig Hughes from Midland for giving me this chance to achieve my dreams.” Read more: East Kilbride News  

Well done Gary, we wish you the best of luck in the USA!

Do you think you have what it takes to secure a soccer scholarship to the USA, like Gary?  Apply now for your assessment!