McLaren is set for move to America
Soccer star Reg McLaren has netted a scholarship in America.
The former Community School of Auchterarder student will begin a new adventure at Thomas University this summer.
He will be mixing football and a degree in Rehabilitation Studies in the city of Thomasville, Georgia from August.
McLaren, previously of Stirling Albion and currently playing for Jeanfield Swifts, cannot wait to get started.
Making the journey Stateside was something that crossed his mind years ago but he felt now was the right time.
The process of securing his move was aided by Swifts assistant boss Logan McConachie, co-owner of Step Further Football.
“I’d mentioned it to Logan,”McLaren said. “He had made links with a scholarship company and it was pushed on from there.
“I’d thought about it before but then managed to get into the first team at Stirling Albion. I left it for a while.
“The degree is four years and, obviously, it depends on how I do with my grades. But I’m hoping to be there for the four years.
“I’m expecting a decent standard of football over in America. I’ve heard a lot of good things about it. I know a few boys who have gone out there and they all say it’s a very good standard.”
McLaren knows players who have moved Stateside to make their mark in the game, including former St Johnstone player Greg Hurst.
“Part of the reason I want to go over there is to see if I can get a semi-pro team or something similar outwith when playing with the uni,”McLaren revealed.
“I know Greg Hurst a wee bit and he is playing at the level I’d ideally aim for, maybe just below that.
“It’s something I definitely think I can do if I can keep my fitness up. I think there are plenty of teams - especially in
Georgia - and they take football seriously.
“The plan is to get noticed and hopefully stay out there to keep playing.”
Action with Jeanfield Swifts is currently suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic but McLaren will ensure he keeps the legs ticking over.
McLaren is hopeful that the campaign can continue when safe to do so.
He said: “Hopefully we have the rest of the season to look forward to. Winning the league before I head out to America would be nice.
“We’ve not been beaten in the league and I don’t see why that can’t continue.”