We gave a presentation at a packed school hall recently; full of student-athletes, parents, coaches, and a whole lot of questions about what it really takes to chase the U.S. college dream. No smoke and mirrors, no sales pitch just a straight-up conversation about the process. Because the truth is, the U.S. college pathway is an incredible opportunity, but it's not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Over the last decade, we’ve helped more than 2,000 athletes navigate their way to the U.S. Whether you're chasing a pro career, academic excellence, or just an unforgettable experience, there is a path but it starts with knowing what you're really signing up for.
Some students head to the U.S. with a clear mission: go pro. Others want to see the world and come home with a degree. And then there are those who want both. We've had athletes turn down top NCAA Division I scholarships to pursue medicine at elite academic schools like Johns Hopkins. We've also seen others take a chance on themselves, landing in powerhouse athletic programs with one goal: go all the way.
Whatever your goal is, know it. That clarity matters more than the size of the logo on your hoodie.
Here’s the truth that most people don’t tell you: NCAA divisions aren’t based on talent. They’re based on school size and funding.
Yes, Division I programs often have elite facilities and big budgets. But that doesn’t mean a Division II or III school can’t offer a better experience or even better competition. Some D2 and NAIA schools beat D1 programs in head-to-head matchups. And we’ve placed national reps and future pros in every division.
Junior College? It’s one of the most misunderstood but powerful stepping stones available. For the right athlete, it can be a game-changer especially for those who need to build their resume, improve academics, or save costs before transferring to a four-year school.
Too many athletes chase the biggest brand name they can find… only to spend their first year sitting on the bench.
If you're not playing, you're not developing. Coaches know this. And if you try to transfer after year one with no stats to show, the first question you'll get is, "Why didn’t you play?"
Choose a school where you can contribute early. Year one is your launch pad. And yes, transferring is possible, but it’s always better to transfer up or sideways, not down.
Most athletes from New Zealand or Australia are shocked the first time they walk through a college athletic centre in the U.S. Think private recovery rooms, custom meal plans, altitude chambers, and stadiums bigger than Eden Park.
But with all of that comes pressure. You're training, competing, traveling, and juggling academics all while adjusting to life in a new country. That’s why your support system matters. The right coach, teammates, and academic advisors can make all the difference.
We say this at every talk: you are a student-athlete. And the “student” part matters.
In the U.S., your grades aren’t just about staying eligible, they can be the reason you land a better scholarship. Coaches love a strong GPA. Some athletes score $15–$20K in academic aid alone because they kept their grades up and showed up in class.
Think of it this way: every Excellence and Merit on your NCEA report card could literally be money in your future college bank account.
Name. Image. Likeness. NIL deals are changing the game. We’ve seen Kiwi athletes not only get full scholarships but also earn $15,000–$20,000 USD on top through NIL opportunities.
But here’s the catch: it starts with your personal brand. What you post, how you present yourself, the way you communicate, it all counts. Coaches are watching. Brands are watching. So think before you post, and remember: you're a walking, talking resume.
Every family we work with is different. Every athlete has a different path. Some start at JUCO and end up at top 50 D1 programs. Others start strong and transfer when the fit isn’t right.
The most important thing? Know your why. Choose the pathway that aligns with your values, your ambition, and your long-term goals. And surround yourself with people who can guide you, not just sell you a dream.
Because four years might feel like a long time now… but it’ll fly by. And what comes after that is just as important.
If you're thinking seriously about U.S. college sport, let’s talk. We’re here to give honest advice, not just a glossy brochure. Book a free consult, ask the hard questions, and find out what your options really are.
Your future shouldn’t be left to guesswork. Let’s build the right path for you.
→ Book a consult with Platform Sports
