Ratcliffe’s Olivia scores with a USA Soccer Scholarship

Sporting superstar student Olivia Gilbertson is kicking-off a new adventure in this coming September, upon being offered a Soccer Scholarship at Quincy University, Illinois, whilst studying Finance and Accounting.

The post-covid demand for scholarships in America is currently extremely high and Olivia’s hard work on the pitch and in the classroom really has finally paid off. Olivia secured her place after attending multiple trials and showcase events, where over 100 coaches attended, both in person and online. It’s a remarkable achievement, providing her with the chance train and play six days a week whilst studying.

Quincy University is a private Catholic liberal arts college located in the Midwest of Illinois, with around 1500 students. This new opportunity will stretch and challenge Olivia in new ways. She met with Quincy’s Head Coach of Soccer online to discuss how she will be able to progress, both physically and academically.

She said: “I’m very excited to begin this new chapter of my life, it will be a completely different experience and I’m thankful for this incredible opportunity. It’s a lovely town and small university which is exactly what I wanted.

“I have received incredible support from my teachers; Mr Harrison, Mrs Grace and Mr Gilchrist for their invaluable advice and guidance. I am also extremely thankful to my parents for all of their support and everything they have done for me.”

Olivia has had a passion for football since the age of three and began her football career when she was only eight years old, playing at an academy level for both Leicester City and Nottingham Forest. She then moved away from the academy system to pursue open age women’s football as soon as she turned sixteen, with her sights firmly set on a scholarship and a future career hopefully as a professional. She currently trains in Wolverhampton, with Sporting Khalsa Women’s 1^st Team.

Olivia’s father, Tim Gilbertson said, “I am incredibly proud of Olivia and hopefully it’s another step towards a bright sporting future, whilst also gaining the best education possible.”

To find out more about sport, scholarships and much more at Ratcliffe College, visit us on our upcoming Open Morning, Saturday 4^th March 2023 – Book your place online now!