Applewhaite one step closer to his dream

National U20 footballer Andre Applewhaite is one step closer towards his dream of becoming a professional footballer.

The 18-year-old left back recently secured a soccer scholarship to Coastal Bend College in Beeville, Texas, where he will make up part of the Cougars men’s roster , while completing his studies in Business Management.

The soft-spoken young man can be considered a “late bloomer”, because he started to play football at 11 years old after encouragement from school coach Marlon Harte. Three years later, the avid cricket lover, was representing his country at the U15 level in the Souliga Cup in St Martin.

Applewhaite said his playing style and philosophy mirrors his idle, Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba. He said it is a unique situation since they both play different positions but similarly display a high level of technical quality and an ice-cool demeanor.

The roving left-back has been under the watch of international scouts for quite some time, since making his debut in the Barbados Football Association (BFA) Premier League as a 15-year-old, for Claytons Kola Tonic Notre Dame.

Since then the St Patricks’ native has graduated through the national team ranks, playing in the U17 and U20 teams, while helping Weymouth Wales win the BFA Champions Cup and Capelli Super Cup, all within the last three years.

Applewhaite expressed high praises to ASM Scholarships Consulting Agency for working diligently with him to secure the move to Coastal Bend College, and to his family and coaches for their various contributions to his development over the years.

“I would like to thank my family and friends, especially Markaila, for encouraging me during the years. Special thanks to Marlon Harte and Renaldo Gilkes for their hard work and grooming me to be the player I am today.”

A man of few words, Applewhaite offered some simple but effective advice to young players who have similar aspirations.

“I would advise young players to remain humble, work very hard and to never give up on your dreams. Success is a journey one step at a time.”