 Matthew Thorne, Rush, Co. Dublin (Age 27) – Colaiste Íde past pupil
Matthew attended Colaiste íde, Finglas in 2002/3. He won a soccer scholarship to Martin Methodist College, Pulaski Tennessee where he majored in Business/Sports Management (2003-2007). He went on to do a Masters in Business Administration at Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) Montgomery, Alabama (2007-2009). He is currently Head Coach for the University of West Alabama Men's Soccer Program.
What was college like over there? Playing and studying in college in the US were the best 4 years of my life. I was lucky enough to get into coaching college football for a living and the old saying is so true: "You will never work a day in your life if you love your job!"
What were the main differences to Ireland? College athletics in the USA are incredible. The facilities are on par or perhaps even better than what professional teams have back in Europe. The lifestyle is fantastic. I usually had class every weekday morning, training 3-5 days a week preparing for games, and of course the social life was brilliant.
What were the challenges? Living in a new environment was a bit of a challenge and leaving my family and friends when I was 19 wasn’t easy. However, my attitude was I could move back to Ireland anytime but I would only have one opportunity to play in college on a scholarship.
What was it like as an athlete? I felt like a professional! I trained a minimum of 3 and usually 5 days a week depending on game schedules. There was a lot of time dedicated to football. Acclimation to the humidity in the south was tough but you just have to push through to get what you want.
Did going to college in America make a real difference to your life in general? Yes - big time! It has set me up on a career path that I would like to pursue for the rest of my life. I credit Colaiste Íde with getting me here. If I hadn’t done the course I would never have been offered the scholarship in the first place.
About Association Football, Colaiste íde:
Students acquire the necessary skills for life as a student athlete. Those who reach the required academic standard may also have the opportunity to participate in a trip to the USA, designed for students to demonstrate their football ability to US college coaches. Coaches may then offer soccer scholarships to suitable student athletes. Many students who have completed the Soccer Scholarship Progamme course now coach or play at professional or semi-professional level or progress to Higher Education. Visit Colaiste Íde for more information
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