Dandrade turns down MLS trial to link up with scholarship scheme

Students from the UK and further afield can study to pursue careers in the highly-competitive elite football industry thanks to a new programme offered by CU Scarborough and SFS International.

CU Scarborough and SFS International joined forces for the first time ahead of the 2020/2021 academic year to offer a BA (Hons) degree in Sports and Leisure Management, with hopes and ambitions to expand their offering.

First-year student Deon Dandrade turned down trials at Major League Soccer (MLS) outfitDCUnitedwhileex-England and Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney was at the US club, opting instead to move over to the UK to explore his potential both on and off the pitch with CU Scarborough and SFS International.

He said: “I made the move over from the USA to continue pursuing a career as a professional footballer.

“CU Scarborough offered a really unique opportunity to continue chasing my dream of playing professionally, whilst also gaining the education and experience I would need to build a career off the pitch once my playing days are over.

“CU Scarborough and SFS International are providing me with valued support and opportunities helping me on my journey into coaching and scouting the next generation of top footballers, as well as helping me to develop my ability on the pitch.”

CU Scarborough and SFS International also have strong links with Scarborough Athletic.

SFS International founding director Steve Brennan, said: “We offer an environment with similarities to a professional football academy, but we try to go a step further by offering students the chance to develop their holistic knowledge and skills that can be transferrable to the football industry off the pitch as well as on it.

“We’re absolutely delighted that our work with CU Scarborough has provided opportunities for students both here in the UK and overseas to learn more about the football industry and pursue careers in a really competitive and exciting market.”