When Luke Maitland was released by Luton Town FC at the end of his 3 year PFA scholarshp he did what almost all players in his position do. He sought trials at other clubs but was offered nothing suitable.

Whilst his all round talent and athletic ability was clearly unquestionable by the time we were contacted at PASS4 the July close date for joining a US university pre-season soccer program in August 2006 had passed.

Mum Gillian takes up the story:

Our son heard about PASS4 from a friend about to leave for the US."

"Director Barry Poole visited us in August 2006 and felt able to put our trust in PASS4. Luke's wanted to join a university in January 2007. We were in fact advised that opportunities for joining a soccer program in the Spring Semester were very hard to come by. Despite this we felt sure our son would get somehere suitable."

"From then on it was plain sailing. PASS4 were just a phone call or email away with advice about SAT tests to visas. As parents we had nothing to do. We were impressed with PASS4's experience and knowledege which would have been a minefield to us."

"PASS4 made all the contacts, unearthed video footage, arranged a showcase and the university head coach visited us in December 2006. Our son left for university in January 2007 and is now in Kentucky, playing football and about to do his degree and we still have the support from PASS4 who are always just a call away."

"Thanks to PASS4 and all the support they have given us our son has a great opportunity and a bright future ahead of him. He is presently very busy with studies but having a great time too. He spent his Spring Break in Florida and scored on his debut game."

Gillian and Mark are looking forward to Luke coming home for 4 weeks in May before heading back to America for Summer School.