We spoke with 2024 football recruit, Evie about her decision to transfer to a UK university to pursue her sporting career and education.
For international students eager to blend their academic and athletic pursuits, the UK offers a wealth of opportunities.
Meet Evie Nicholson, an international women’s football player and dedicated student from the Cayman Islands. After graduating from Cayman International School, Evie began her higher education at Queen’s University in Canada. Driven by her passion for football and the allure of English football’s heritage, Evie reached out to us to explore the idea of transferring to the UK for a more competitive environment.
From identifying suitable destinations that align with her aspirations both on and off the pitch to connecting her with university coaches, we have been able to support Evie’s transition to the UK where she will be embarking on an exciting new chapter at Nottingham Trent University (NTU).
Renowned for its top-ranked sports programs and elite sporting facilities, the talented defender will be continuing her football career and pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Sciences.
We caught up with Evie to learn about what inspired her move to the UK and what she’s most excited about as she starts this new chapter.
Meet Evie
Attended Cayman International School in the Cayman Islands and Queens University in Canada.
Represented the Cayman Island’s Women’s National team at the CONCACAF Womens U-20 Championship.
Will be pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Sciences at one of the UK’s top ranked sporting universities.
Can you tell us a bit about your background in both academics and football?
“I have always excelled in both academics and sports, with a passion for science, and I’m currently majoring in Biology. Growing up in the Cayman Islands, I was surrounded by the ocean and diverse ecosystems. I started playing football in primary school and have continued ever since. I’ve also travelled internationally to several Caribbean countries with my school, club, and National team.”
Born in the Cayman Islands, Evie has been playing football for over 10 years at club, national, and international levels. In addition to representing her home nation in the CONCACAF Women’s U-20 Championships in 2022, Evie’s football career has taken her across the Caribbean, where she has experienced various levels of competition and diverse playing environments.
What made you decide to pursue both your studies and sporting career in the UK?
“I started university in Canada and didn’t have the opportunity to play football at a high performance level, so I decided in late May to try and switch schools to pursue my sport.
I love that the football season is longer in the UK and as well playing for a university team, there’s lots of opportunities to join clubs outside of school.
Thankfully, the Student Sport Company was so helpful in informing me on the process of applications and availability.”
After graduating from Cayman International School, Evie attended Queen’s University in Canada. Her decision to transfer to a UK university was inspired by the rich heritage of English football and its competitive atmosphere, which she sees as the ideal setting to advance her playing career and pursue her long term football ambitions of playing at a higher level.
How did The Student Sport Company help you through the recruitment and application process?
“I had originally got in contact with The Student Sport Company just to inquire about possibilities of applying and transferring from Queens University. They were always quick to reply and had lots of connections throughout the UK, I’m very thankful to them for giving me so many choices.
They helped me stay ahead of all of the important UCAS deadlines and understand the requirements, as well as connecting me with football coaches.”
Evie will be pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Sciences at Nottingham Trent University (NTU), one of the UK’s top-ranked sporting universities. With access to state-of-the-art sports facilities and a range of competitive opportunities, the Cayman Islands international will join a football program designed to help her develop and grow as a player.
What was the most valuable part of working with The Student Sport Company in your transition to the UK?
“The most valuable part was how helpful they were. I wouldn’t have been able to explore all the different programs on my own, and having an introduction through a mutual connection was much more reassuring.
I didn’t know much about the UK system or how university football worked, so their guidance was incredibly comforting.”
What are you most looking forward to in the season ahead?
“I’m most looking forward to playing in the BUCS league for NTU and also for a club team.
As well as getting the chance to play football every day, I’m excited to meet new people and experience the football culture in England.”
Want to pursue your sport and education at a university in the UK?
The Student Sport Company are here to guide you every step of the way!
We proudly work with the leading sporting and academic institutions throughout the U.K. and are able to assist international students of all ages and levels of study with combining their preferred academic qualifications with their sporting ambitions.
Learn more about UK University Football below or register your details for our free service to embark on your exciting journey of education and sports in the United Kingdom.
Please follow our social media channels to keep up to date with all things sport related across the Higher Education sector!
