AMERICAN COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES NEED INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ATHLETES
Universities in the USA have large budgets for their sports teams because they are a crucial marketing and advertising instrument and therefore an important source of revenue. To create the strongest teams possible, they usually recruit top talent from around the world. Full-time coaches are responsible for recruiting talented players and oftentimes offer good scholarships. In the national college leagues (NCAA Division-1 & 2, NAIA, Usports), which were especially created for collegiate athletics, teams from different schools compete against each other.
Want to learn more?
Here are some of the reasons why you should consider studying at a college in the USA or Canada:
MOST PROFESSIONAL COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND SPORTS
The United States combines the highest level of education and sports in the world. Universities ensure that coaches and academics work closely together, creating a supportive environment for their student athletes. Student-athletes will have the best possible developmental opportunities under these conditions. Universities have large budgets and the best resources available (facilities, equipment, training centers, physical therapists, assistant coaches, strength and conditioning coaches, team managers etc.) The social aspects and career opportunities you can obtain from this are unparalleled anywhere else on Earth.
SPECTACULAR MATCH ATMOSPHERE
The atmosphere at a college volleyball competition is very unique. Depending on the sport, a typical sports arena is huge and packed with enthusiastic students and fans. Many teams have their own fan clubs, marching bands, cheerleaders, dance groups and much more, creating a spectacular feeling of exhilaration. College matches are broadcast via television, radio and the internet, reaching a high number of viewers, so don’t be surprised when people suddenly recognize you on campus or outside of school.
ATTRACTIVE SCHOLARSHIPS
Think about all the hard work you have put into training, if you can continue to work at or above that level you may be eligible for scholarships averaging in the 6-figure area. A full scholarship covers most expenses in the US, such as tuition (school fees), books, meals, housing and training equipment as well as travel costs, hotels and meals at away games. The average value can range from 20,000 to +70,000 USD per year (depending on the sport) and usually gets renewed until you’ve obtained your bachelor’s or master’s degree. While female players have a high chance of being granted a full scholarship in the USA, male players should only expect a partial scholarship depending on the budget and recruiting needs of the school.
PERSONAL GROWTH
The opportunity to study and play your sport in the USA is a once in a lifetime experience. You will be able to experience new cultures and people, authentic ideas, and some of the most interesting times of your life. You will be surrounded by a different culture and landscape, North American architecture and food while meeting your new sports team and coaches.
Such a scenario can indeed be scary and overwhelming, but imagine the feeling that arises when you realize you’re able to overcome these initial fears and master all of these challenges. This is exactly when you grow and develop, when you leave your comfort zone.
This courage will be highly rewarded with more self-confidence and personal development, which will be valuable throughout your life.
PERSPECTIVES AND NETWORK
An internationally accredited bachelor’s or master’s degree, fluent English skills and the experience of living in a foreign country are always a big plus for future job applications.
Being a student athlete requires discipline, effort, time management, adaptability and team work as well as good communication and leadership skills, all of which are invaluable for any job. In addition, various school projects with international companies and internships will enhance and broaden your global contacts, and some friendships you make will last a lifetime.
MOST PROFESSIONAL COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND SPORTS
The United States combines the highest level of education and sports in the world. Universities ensure that coaches and academics work closely together, creating a supportive environment for their student athletes. Student-athletes will have the best possible developmental opportunities under these conditions. Universities have large budgets and the best resources available (facilities, equipment, training centers, physical therapists, assistant coaches, strength and conditioning coaches, team managers etc.) The social aspects and career opportunities you can obtain from this are unparalleled anywhere else on Earth.
SPECTACULAR MATCH ATMOSPHERE
The atmosphere at a college volleyball competition is very unique. Depending on the sport, a typical sports arena is huge and packed with enthusiastic students and fans. Many teams have their own fan clubs, marching bands, cheerleaders, dance groups and much more, creating a spectacular feeling of exhilaration. College matches are broadcast via television, radio and the internet, reaching a high number of viewers, so don’t be surprised when people suddenly recognize you on campus or outside of school.
ATTRACTIVE SCHOLARSHIPS
Think about all the hard work you have put into training, if you can continue to work at or above that level you may be eligible for scholarships averaging in the 6-figure area. A full scholarship covers most expenses in the US, such as tuition (school fees), books, meals, housing and training equipment as well as travel costs, hotels and meals at away games. The average value can range from 20,000 to +70,000 USD per year (depending on the sport) and usually gets renewed until you’ve obtained your bachelor’s or master’s degree. While female players have a high chance of being granted a full scholarship in the USA, male players should only expect a partial scholarship depending on the budget and recruiting needs of the school.
PERSONAL GROWTH
The opportunity to study and play your sport in the USA is a once in a lifetime experience. You will be able to experience new cultures and people, authentic ideas, and some of the most interesting times of your life. You will be surrounded by a different culture and landscape, North American architecture and food while meeting your new sports team and coaches.
Such a scenario can indeed be scary and overwhelming, but imagine the feeling that arises when you realize you’re able to overcome these initial fears and master all of these challenges. This is exactly when you grow and develop, when you leave your comfort zone.
This courage will be highly rewarded with more self-confidence and personal development, which will be valuable throughout your life.
PERSPECTIVES AND NETWORK
An internationally accredited bachelor’s or master’s degree, fluent English skills and the experience of living in a foreign country are always a big plus for future job applications.
Being a student athlete requires discipline, effort, time management, adaptability and team work as well as good communication and leadership skills, all of which are invaluable for any job. In addition, various school projects with international companies and internships will enhance and broaden your global contacts, and some friendships you make will last a lifetime.
