A YOUNG footballer from Whitby who scored a sought-after scholarship to play professionally in the States has been nominated for Sporting Champion of the Year.
Kylie Jones, 19, was hand-picked by soccer scouts to take up a four-year scholarship at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) and made the move to the East Coast in August.
And the former Ellesmere Port Catholic High School pupil has already made her mark on the pitch as a member of the NJIT Highlanders – she is currently the team’s leading goal scorer.
“I have settled into NJIT really well. I am really enjoying training and playing football every day,” said Kylie.
“I have a pretty hectic schedule while in season, with keeping up with work as well as the early practices.
“But I am enjoying my time here and once season is over I will have more time to focus on my studies.”
Kylie has been playing since she was six and, at 13, was chosen to attend the Liverpool Centre of Excellence.
She went on to play for Cheshire County, Tranmere and Chester City Ladies first team.
The centre midfielder netted her scholarship after travelling to London to be filmed by scouts from First Point USA, who passed the footage on to American colleges.
She said: “I’m getting a little homesick and missing my family and friends and looking forward to coming home at Christmas to see them all.
“But it’s great that I am still in contact with most of my friends and can talk to my parents every day, so it’s not so bad.”
Kylie advises young players hoping to follow in her footsteps to stay focused.
She added: “My goal very quickly became a reality and it’s a great feeling when you know you’re going somewhere to do something you love, playing football, and also getting an education.
“I am very lucky to be here and have received a lot of support from my family to get here which I am grateful for.”
