Gold Coast

U.S. College Soccer Pathway Info Night

Presented by Platform Sports Management in partnership with Magic United Soccer Club

Many families start looking into U.S. college soccer without a clear understanding of how the system works for Australian players. Timelines can be confusing, scholarships are often misunderstood, and it’s easy for players to chase opportunities that aren’t the right fit.

This in-person session is a practical walkthrough of the U.S. college soccer pathway, covering what parents should be thinking about early and what players can realistically focus on now, so families can make informed decisions before committing time or money.

Girls session: Wednesday, 4th February 2026
Boys session: Thursday, 5th February 2026

Live presentation followed by open Q&A

What We’ll Cover on the Night

We’ll walk through:

How U.S. college soccer scholarships actually work (and common misconceptions)
When recruitment really starts for Australian players
What coaches care about beyond highlights and results
Academic, eligibility, and visa considerations families often miss
Mistakes we see players make between ages 14–18
How to prepare early, even if the U.S. pathway feels uncertain right now

It’s about understanding the pathway, not being rushed into it.

Your Speakers

Will & Miguel

William Clarkson, Platform Australia Manager

William Clarkson grew up in Auckland and attended Rosmini College. As one of four brothers who represented New Zealand in the 2024 Lacrosse World Cup, William completed his own college recruitment journey, receiving one offer to attend Chestnut Hill College, where he competed in lacrosse for two years. After the COVID-19 outbreak cut his time short, William returned to New Zealand and joined Platform Sports. His goal is to provide student-athletes with more opportunities than he had, ensuring a better recruitment experience.

Miguel Da Silva, Platform Australia Recruiter

Miguel brings a lived understanding of the U.S. college soccer system shaped by resilience, adaptability, and a deep knowledge of the pathway.

Over the past five years, Miguel has competed across four different college soccer programs and three semi-professional summer league clubs in the U.S. Experiences that have given him first-hand insight into recruitment, transfers, and the realities of college sport. During his freshman year, he earned NJCAA All-American honours and finished as the third-highest goal scorer in NJCAA Division I.

Miguel’s journey hasn’t been linear. He’s navigated transfers, injuries, and setbacks that tested both his performance and mindset. Those experiences now shape how he supports others.

Now part of the Platform Sports team, Miguel works as a college recruiter and mentor, helping student-athletes and families better understand the U.S. college system. From transfer pathways and summer league opportunities to managing injuries and staying mentally resilient, he brings practical, real-world insight that goes beyond highlight reels.

Areas of Expertise

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.”

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."

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 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

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 Gardner

Director of the PBI Academy in Dubai

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.