Goalkeeper Jack catches a degree (From Ilkley Gazette)

Goalkeeper Jack catches a degree

4:32pm Thursday 21st June 2012 in Local news

A goalkeeper has got his hands on a degree in business after graduating from an American university.

Former Ilkley Grammar School pupil Jack Marchant left England in 2008 to head for the University of Rio Grande, in Ohio, after being offered a soccer scholarship.

In the four years Mr Marchant has been at Rio Grande they have reached the NAIA National Finals each year, twice in Fresno, California, and twice in Orange Beach, Alabama.

However, hard work academically as well as football meant he graduated earlier this month with a degree in Business Management.

He is to stay on for a Masters of Business Administration, another two years, which also means he has been allowed an extra year’s playing privileges and in his final year he will take up the position of first team goalkeeping coach.

Mr Marchant has also taken United States Football Association coaching badges as well as qualifying as a referee.

His two sisters, Kimberley and Carly, flew out with his parents for his graduation.