YOUNGSTER Gerard McGahey is itching to begin the next chapter in his football career after being signing a scholarship for Rio Grande University in the America.
The 19-year-old moved to the Strachan Football Foundation in Rugby from Bilton High School three years ago and his progression both on and off the football pitch has earned him a dream move to America.
McGahey, who plays in centre midfield, captained SFF to second place in the Under-19 ECFA College Premier League and also featured in a friendly match at against Nike Academy at St George’s Park earlier this year.
“I’m delighted the move has now been completed I can’t wait to get started,” said McGahey.
“My time at SFF has given me this opportunity, I now have four years of playing in a national recognised football programme whilst still progressing academically being able to complete a four-year degree.
“The opportunity to play for the NAIA national champions and number one ranked team in the country is very difficult to turn down.
“It feels the right move for me and cannot wait to get started. SFF and the efforts of director Dan Elliott has made the move possible, they have helped identify the right university which suits my ambition and education requirements.”
SFF have built strong relations with a number of American College’s in the NAIA championship and NCAA division 1 and 2 giving its learners a great opportunity of gaining a scholarship and studying in the USA.
McGahey further enhances this relationship and he follows in the footsteps of fellow SFF graduate Harry Reilly who moved to Rio Grande last year.
“We are absolutely delighted we could wrap up the transfer of Gerard,” said Scott Wells, assistant coach at Rio Grand, who won the NAIA National Championship in Florida back in November last year.
“It is extremely important that as coaching staff here at Rio we bring in players that share the same philosophy and direction as us.
“With Gerard we definitely have that and he now has the opportunity to be part of an era that can help him move to the next level while obtaining his education that no one can ever take this away from him.”
Another player on the move is 18-year-old Sam Eyes who is also heading off to America after signing a scholarship at Thomas University in Georgia.
Eyes has been with SFF as a full-time student for two years as an apprentice from Boughton Leigh School and his hard work paid off after being offered scholarships at three different universities, but he opted for a move to Thomasville.
