For the past nine months, former Allegheny College soccer player Daniel has been living life as an international student-athlete on the South Coast of England, pursuing his master’s degree and continuing his soccer career.
We recently caught up with Daniel to ask about his experience in England as a student-athlete so far and what his plans are following the completion of his master’s degree in Digital Media Arts.
How did you find your experience of combining your master’s degree with soccer in the UK?
Currently based in Brighton, I have found the experience overall a positive one so far.
Even though I am in a slightly unorthodox position, training 6 days a week often with multiple sessions a day, I would say that my professors and lecturers have been very understanding and flexible. I have been able to remain in good standing simply through proactively communicating and being willing to put in the hours away from the classroom to keep up with the course.
Compared to your experience of playing college soccer in America, what would you say were some of the main differences from playing in England?
To be completely honest, football (soccer) in the U.S. vs England is so different. First, you have to say football unless you want to get made fun of for the rest of the season – trust me, this is from experience.
Another big difference is the style of play, which takes some time to adjust to, especially as a smaller and flair-y player. The style is very direct and very physical. It only gets more difficult when you factor in the weather, as England is notorious in the winter months for rain, which creates pitches that force many 50/50s with the ball being unpredictable.
However, for someone who wants to further their game and become a more complete and dimensional player, England is the perfect breeding ground.
Above: Alongside playing another season of college soccer, Daniel was able to travel to Italy during his spare time.
Since completing your classes for your master’s degree, what are you currently doing?
So, I am still working to complete my degree as my course runs from September to September (12 months). However, at the beginning of the year, I signed onto a non-league side called Peacehaven & Telscombe FC, which competes in the Southern Combination Premier League. One of the main reasons why I decided to go to Brighton was because the manager of Peacehaven was also the coach for the first team at university. I was able to slot into the first team at Peacehaven, which provided another great environment to hone my ability.
Non-league in England holds a great reputation amongst other countries because so many players will trickle down through the leagues for various reasons. I was fortunate enough to play with players who have played in pro sides, like Brighton Hove Albion and Crystal Palace, which is an invaluable learning experience.
What are your plans and ambitions for the future?
My plans for the future are very much dependent on soccer. I do obviously plan on completing my degree and I have got a few interviews for jobs, but the goal is still to sign a pro in the next couple of years. So, wherever I can do that, that’s where I will be!
Finally, what was your experience like when working with Play Soccer Overseas?
My experience working with Play Soccer Overseas was nothing except positive. Excellent with communication and checking in to make sure everything is going well, as trying to apply for a course and visa can be challenging and stressful. I cannot say enough good things about this organization and am incredibly grateful for all the opportunities that have come of it so far.
Learn more about playing soccer as a postgraduate student-athlete in the UK.
Student-athletes are permitted to play college sport in the U.K. whilst studying for a master’s degree, regardless of the number of seasons they have played in the NCAA or NAIA
Read more about postgraduate soccer opportunities in the UK by clicking the button below.
