For many young footballers, the dream of playing at a high level can feel out of reach. But for Tyler Dobinson, that dream became reality through a scholarship, when his journey took him through the ranks from junior college in New York to an NCAA program berth in Miami. Those experiences - as he made his way up the collegiate soccer ladder - would shape his career, build life-long friendships and create unique football memories.
Laying the Foundations: Junior College Soccer
Originally from Exmouth, Devon, and having been scouted by Exeter City as a promising youngster, Tyler went to Exeter College after leaving school to study BTEC Sports. Becoming a FirstPoint athlete, he was quickly successful in securing an offer from Herkimer County Community College near Syracuse in Upstate New York where he began his two-year stint in junior college soccer.
He quickly adapted to the demands of balancing academics and athletics, excelling both on the pitch and in the classroom, and was named the 2019-20 Herkimer College Male Athlete of the Year. That success led to him earning the opportunity to land himself after two enjoyable years plying his trade with the Generals.
"Through both good performances on the pitch and in the classroom, I was able to transfer to Barry University in Miami, going from NJCAA to NCAA" Tyler explains. "Reaching the national Final Four both years I was there and earning All-American honors were definitely highlights of my time at Herkimer, and it laid the foundations for my next move."
The Big Move: Barry University in Miami
After two years at Herkimer, Tyler transferred to Barry University in Miami, Florida, where he completed his bachelor’s degree in business management. The transition to an NCAA program brought new challenges and a higher level of competition.
"Competing in the Final Four in my last year at Barry was an incredible experience. We made a deep run in the National Tournament but fell just short in the semi-finals. That’s something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life, and it was incredible to play in the latter stages of a major competition."
Life as a Student-Athlete
Managing a packed schedule was one of the toughest parts of Tyler’s journey. Being a full-time student and a full-time athlete requires discipline, but he found that using the resources available—both academically and athletically—made it possible to succeed on all fronts.
"It's a very full-on schedule, a very professional environment," he says. "You're essentially traveling the U.S., doing what you love—playing football."
“I also made friends with team-mates who came from all over the world, from European, North and South America, people who I still talk to daily who’ll be friends for life.
Advice for Future College Athletes
Tyler’s advice to aspiring student-athletes? Use every resource at your disposal.
"They have all the latest technology and equipment for you to use, both on and off the pitch, athletically and academically. It can be tough and challenging, but If you get yourself into a good routine and schedule, it’s very manageable," he emphasizes.
If you’re a student-athlete looking to take the next step in your journey through a transfer, register your interest with FirstPoint USA today. Let us help you find the perfect college fit and unlock your full potential.
