All eyes turn to the USA for this summer’s World Cup, but two students are on their own road to glory.
Ella Brannigan, 18, former student at Blessed Trinity RC College and Isaac Smith, 18, former student as Shuttleworth College are preparing to take their football talent to America having both secured scholarships.
For Ella and Isaac, football has always been more than just a sport. Ella studies Sport and Exercise Science however, when she’s not studying, she hones her skills playing for Colne’s football team.
Isaac studies Business, Criminology and History and developed his football talent as part of the Academy of Football at Burnley College.
Their journey to the USA began in 2024, when they applied for scholarships alongside many others.
Their dedication and talent shone through, earning them multiple offers to choose from.
After careful consideration, Ella chose Meridian University in Los Angeles, a decision she describes as a dream come true. Ella said:
“Meridian is where I wanted to go, I couldn’t imagine going anywhere else.”
As she looks ahead to her new life in America, she admits to feeling a mix of nerves and excitement. She said:
“I’ve already spoken to a lot of the girls going, and I know it’s going to be amazing. I’m expecting a lot of football and making new friends.”
Isaac, meanwhile, selected the University of Rio Grande in Ohio as the next step in his journey. He said:
“I’ve got to make it my own. I’m going out there to have fun but also staying true to the purpose I got chosen for.”
Ella and Isaac’s stories are a testament to what can be achieved with dedication and ambition.
We’re incredibly proud of Isaac and Ella, and we can’t wait to see what they achieve on their scholarship journey.
Explore our wide range of sport courses and find out how you too can create incredible opportunities at Burnley College.
