College Soccer in the U.S:

How Players Actually Make It Into College Soccer (And What Happens Next)

With Connar Mackay (NCAA Athlete) & Miguel da Silva (Platform Sports)

A lot of content talks about college soccer, but very little shows what it actually feels like once you’re in it.

In this session, Connar Mackay shares his real experience as a current college player, from moving overseas and finding the right fit to handling the day-to-day demands of being a student-athlete.

Alongside him, Miguel da Silva breaks down how recruitment works and what players should be doing if they want to create similar opportunities.

Live online webinar

27 April 2026, 7:00PM EDT (Florida) | 28 April 2026, 9:00AM AEST (Brisbane)

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

Why This Matters

Most players see highlights and outcomes, but not the decisions, trade-offs, and preparation behind them. Without understanding how the process actually works, it’s easy to focus on the wrong things or leave decisions too late. This session helps players and families get a clearer picture of what the pathway looks like in practice.

What This Session Covers

This session provides a clear walkthrough of the pathway:

  •  What the U.S. college soccer pathway looks like from a player’s perspective
  • Connor’s journey from academy football to NCAA soccer
  • What matters when choosing the right school and environment
  • Challenges international athletes face and how to handle them
  • How to stand out in the recruiting process
  • What players should be doing right now to improve their chances
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Who Should Attend

This session is ideal for:

  • High school soccer players (14–18) exploring college opportunities

  • International athletes who want to play in the U.S.

  • Players already in the process but unsure what to focus on

  • Athletes looking for a realistic understanding of the pathway

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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."

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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.

 

 
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Your Speakers

William and Connar

 

Connar Mackay
NCAA Division II Soccer Player, Eckerd College
Former Bentley University player with experience across academy, semi-pro, and international football environments.

 

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.”

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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.”

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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.”

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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”

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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.

 

Stay Ahead in Your Recruitment Journey

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