We recently had the opportunity to catch up with FirstPoint USA client, and one of the most recent soccer players to join the ranks, Louis Spicer. Here, Louis shares with us his sporting background and achievements, his reasons for wishing to pursue a soccer scholarship in the States, and his future aspirations.
Hailing from Cambridgeshire, Louis tells us that he has spent the majority of life in Northamptonshire. Louis is a former pupil of Prince William School in Oundle, Northamptonshire. However, when his parents began working overseas, Louis transferred to Millfield School, a boarding school in Somerset. “[Millfield] School has fantastic facilities and is a great opportunity for me to improve my studies and my sport. I am really enjoying the football at the school; it is a high standard and I’m playing at some really great locations. I will really benefit from my time at [Millfield] school,” stated Louis.
From a young age, Louis has had a keen interest in sport, specifically soccer. When living in Cambridgeshire, Louis played for Alconbury, prior to moving to local team, Buckden. Whilst there, Louis was invited to participate in the in the Cambridge United Academy scheme at just aged 9.
After his relocation to Northamptonshire, Louis tells us he joined soccer team, Wellingborough Town. Whilst there, Louis states, “we competed around the country and at some national events, we won many competitions and a lot of trophies.” During his time at Wellingborough, Louis was again picked up by a scout, and asked to take part in the Norwich City and Leicester City academies. At the age of 15, Louis moved to Kettering U18’s to improve the standard he was playing at; by playing against older kids, he felt he was able to stretch himself even further.
With an extensive sporting career behind him so far, we asked Louis to tell us about his favourite sporting memory to date...
“My favourite sporting moment was when Leicester City won the league. I support Leicester City and we go to some of the games as a family. Their success was against all the odds and showed what team work and togetherness can deliver – even against opponents with much greater players. The Leicester story was a fantastic success for the underdog.”
Louis tells us that he wants to study in the States as it will provide him with a fantastic opportunity to get a degree whilst also playing soccer at a high standard. Louis adds that he believes the culture change will develop him as an individual.
Upon beginning his life as student-athlete in the US, Louis states that he is most looking forward to the soccer and facilities that will be available to him. Adding, that it will be a great development and will build on his time and experiences at Millfield.
We asked Louis to tell us about his top three sportspeople and why...
“My favourite player is Cristiano Ronaldo. This may sound a bit stereotypical, but I like him because he came from nothing and worked constantly to improve and make a name for himself – this shows the dedication and the hard work that he does.
Another player I admire is Jamie Vardy. He was a non-league footballer and worked his way up to the Premier League. Vardy’s dedication saw him go on to break records and to help his team win the Premier League, against all odds.
Finally, I admire Messi because he is so technically gifted and is amazing to watch. Particularly, how he makes everything he does, look so easy.”
Finally, we asked Louis where he sees himself being in 10 years time. He states that he hopes to be working within the sporting industry. Adding, “This is because I am passionate about it and would enjoy my work. Although, the dream is still to be playing a high standard of soccer, and I will continue to pursue this.”
We’d like to thank Louis for catching up with us. We’ll keep you updated on Louis' progress throughout the scholarship process across our various social media platforms; Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.
Think you’ve got what it takes? Apply to FirstPoint USA today for your chance to head to the States on a sports scholarship:
