For Canberra student-athletes:

Accessing U.S. College Opportunities

With Miguel da Silva & Will Clarkson, Platform Sport Management

For many Canberra families, the idea of studying and playing sport in the U.S. comes up, but the pathway itself isn’t always clear.

This session is designed to break that down in a practical, easy-to-understand way, covering how the system works, what opportunities exist, and what student-athletes need to be doing during high school if they want to keep that option open.

Led by Miguel da Silva, who grew up in Canberra and went through the U.S. college pathway himself, the session brings a local perspective to what is often seen as an overseas process.

This dual perspective will give attendees a deeper, more relatable understanding of the pathway from different angles.

Live online webinar

Thursday 14 May 2026 | 6:00PM (AEST)

Notes: Places are limited, so we recommend registering early if you’re interested in attending.

Why This Matters

Many families only start looking into the U.S. pathway late in high school, when timelines are already tight and options are more limited. At the same time, there is often confusion around scholarships, eligibility, and what level is actually required. Understanding how the pathway works earlier allows student-athletes to prepare properly, make more informed decisions, and avoid common mistakes that can impact opportunities later.

What This Session Covers

This session provides a clear walkthrough of the pathway:

  •  How the U.S. college sports system works for Australian student-athletes
  • What coaches are actually looking for beyond performance
  • Recruitment timelines and when athletes should be preparing
  • Academic requirements and eligibility
  • Scholarship structures and realistic expectations
  • The step-by-step process from school to college
  • Live Q&A with athletes and parents
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Who Should Attend

This session is ideal for:

  • Canberra student-athletes aged 14–18 across all sports

  • Parents exploring overseas university opportunities

  • Families unsure if the U.S. pathway is realistic or suitable

  • Athletes early in the process who want clarity before committing time or money

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"I can't thank the team at Platform Sports enough for their incredible support in helping me secure a swimming scholarship at Penn State University. Their personalized guidance, extensive network, and deep understanding of the process made my journey from New Zealand to the US a breeze. If you're a swimmer looking to make a splash across the Pacific, Amrit, Tash, and the team is your ultimate gateway.”

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Cooper Morley, Penn State University

NCAA Division I Swimming

"Working with platform sports made my process of college recruitment so easy. I was constantly looked after by the team and they helped me through every struggle one would face when trying to go to America for sports. Working with them has been such a good experience and I will always thank them for the time and effort they put into me and my goals."

Kayla

Kayla Van De Ven , Wichita State

NCAA Division 1 Golf

"Partnering with Platform Sports Management was a game changer for me and my family. Through their professionalism and hard work they have turned my dream into reality. They didn’t just represent me but also believed in me. Helping to push me to where I am now. Very thankful for all that they have done!”

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Keegan Kelly, University of Denver

NCAA Division I Soccer

We are Australasia's leading sports recruitment agency, proud to have guided thousands of student-athletes worldwide to secure sports and academic scholarships at top-tier universities.

 

 
Will and Miguel - Host

Your Speakers

William and Miguel

 

Will Clarkson
Australia Manager, Platform Sports Management

Will has experience supporting international athletes through the U.S. college system and works closely with families on recruitment strategy, eligibility, and long-term pathway planning.

 

Miguel da Silva
College Recruiter, Platform Sports Management

Miguel grew up in Canberra and went on to compete in U.S. college soccer. He now works with student-athletes navigating the same pathway, helping them understand recruitment timelines, transfers, and realistic opportunities.

Areas of Expertise

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Recruitment Strategy • U.S. College Placement • Athlete Support

Australia / New Zealand / World-Wide

“We’re excited to add a college recruitment pathway for our users and partners, bringing together education and sport in a way that creates real, lasting opportunities. Even more so, we’re proud to do it alongside a like-minded company like Platform Sports.”

talent lockr

Bryce Poisel

Talentlockr, Founder

"Excited to be collaborating with Platform Sports Management to create a clear pathway for juniors chasing their dream of playing college golf in the U.S. I’ll be working alongside Platform to prepare athletes through all areas of performance, while Platform draws on their passion and industry experience to provide juniors with the best range of options and guidance on their journey."

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Fit to Play

Adam Weeks, Owner

“At LifeTime, we pride ourselves on putting the players' needs first and taking a holistic approach to an athlete's development. We have chosen to work with Platform as we recognise those same values. Amrit and his team have gone above and beyond for our athletes and we look forward to continuing to work with Platform in the future.”

Marc - Eclipse

Marc Svenson

LifeTime Tennis Academy, Brisbane

“Amrit and Platform not only has an in-depth knowledge of the College system but works hard to make sure the athlete secures the right fit right from the start. They also genuinely cares about each athlete and continues to be there for them throughout their college career, and for me that makes a huge difference.”

Kevin Smith - Eclipse

Kevin Smith

PGA Pro Coach

“With Platform, I found a very personalised approach to the recruitment process. Ultimately, I feel that they genuinely care about the athletes they represent. This makes them stand out amongst the rest”

Jake - Eclipse

Jake Gardner

Director of the PBI Academy in Dubai

FAQs

We’ve answered some of the most common ones below. If you still need help, feel free to reach out to our team—we’re here to support you.

1. What is this presentation about?

This free session is designed to educate parents and athletes on how the US college system works for student athletes. We’ll cover scholarship opportunities, academic requirements, the recruitment process, and what life is like as a student-athlete in the US.

2. Who is this presentation for?

Parents of high school athletes (ages 14–18) who are interested in competing at the college level in the United States, either on scholarship or as part of a team.

3. Will this help my child get a scholarship?

Yes! We’ll walk you through how scholarships work, how to improve your child’s chances, and what college coaches are looking for in both athletes and students.

4. Do we need to be an elite athlete to be considered?

Not at all. We’ll explain the different levels of college competition (Division 1, Division 2, NAIA, JUCO) and how there are opportunities for a wide range of athletes—not just national champions.

5. What sports are covered in this presentation?

We can answer questions on any sport you compete in.

6. Will you explain the academic requirements too?

Yes, absolutely. We’ll cover GPA, SAT/ACT requirements (if needed), and how academics play a role in the recruitment and scholarship process.

7. Is this relevant for international families?

Yes! The presentation is tailored for international athletes looking to study and compete in the US. We’ll talk about the visa process, eligibility, and how international recruitment works.

8. Can we book a free consultation after the presentation?

Yes, Will will be around for a little while after the presentation. You can go ahead and book a private meeting with him. But be quick due to limited spots! 

9. What happens after the presentation?

You’ll receive a follow-up pack with the full college roadmap, scholarship checklists, and an option to book a free one-on-one call with our team to discuss your child’s specific situation.

10. Is there any cost to attend?

No, the presentation is completely free to attend.

 

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