Toowoomba footballers set to strengthen skills in USA

Former Toowoomba Grammar School students ready to learn about football in USA.

ON THE BALL: Former Toowoomba Grammar School footballers (from left) Mitchell McLeod, Joe Scott, Tim Zuyderwyk and Kyle Parish will travel to the United States this week to begin scholarships at a number of colleges. Picture: Kevin Farmer

FOOTBALL: Five Toowoomba athletes are about to prove why football is often referred to as "the world game”.

The former Toowoomba Grammar School students will fly out for the United States this week after accepting college scholarships.

Kyle Parish, Mitchell McLeod, Joe Scott, Tim Zuyderwky and Chris McCarthy will play football for a number of Division Two colleges while furthering their education.

TGS director of football Peter Broadfoot said it was a great opportunity for the young men to enrich their sporting and personal lives.

"In Australia there are essentially 10 opportunities to play youth football at a high level - the A-League,” Broadfoot said.

"In the US college system there are endless opportunities to play football at a competitive level - some of the facilities there outweigh those available to A-League clubs.

"And they (the players) have someone funding their education as well. It's a great opportunity for all of them.”

Broadfoot also commended the group for their dedication, focus and drive.

"It's a big risk, stepping so far out of their comfort zone but they should all be commended for their efforts,” he said.

"It shows what you can achieve with some hard work and dedication.

"Potentially they could come back to the A-League, go somewhere else overseas to play or put their degree to use.

"The opportunities are endless.”

It is also hoped that the latest group of players heading to the US will inspire the next generation of TGS footballers.

"We've worked hard to build a good network and football program here at the school,” Broadfoot said.

"Their achievements are a sign of its strength and it's been great having them back around the school recently.

"A lot of the younger players look up to them and it makes it all the more real.

"It shows them it can be done.”

Originally published as Toowoomba footballers set to strengthen skills in USA