Meet 2024 Football Recruit: Thadee Lombardo

We spoke with Italian football player, Thadee Lombardo about his decision to pursue his athletic and academic goals in the UK.

The UK is renowned for its rich football history and is home to some of the world’s most prestigious football leagues and clubs, including the Premier League.

This football legacy transcends into UK universities, where many institutions offer top-tier football programs and facilities, fostering the development of talented players and integrating the sport into student life.

Continuing this storied tradition, Italian-born Thadee Lombardo has chosen to join a top UK university renowned for its football excellence, where he will advance his promising career in a passionate football environment enriched by state-of-the-art facilities, expert coaching, and a supportive community.

This September, Thadee will transition from the Prem Tinsulanonda International School in Thailand to immerse himself in the vibrant football culture and academic excellence at the University of Stirling, where he will undertake a bachelor’s degree in Sports Business Management.

We spoke with Thadee about his decision to study in the UK, what excites him most about this new chapter, and his experiences working with The Student Sport Company.

Can you tell us about your football background and how growing up in Italy and living in Thailand has shaped your career to date?

“ I have a rich soccer background that spans across different countries, including Thailand and Italy. I started my soccer journey at a young age and have played in various positions, including Left Wing, Striker, and Central Attacking Midfielder, which has helped me develop a versatile skill set.

In Thailand, I attended Prem Tinsulanonda International School, where I had the opportunity to play both junior varsity and varsity football, eventually becoming the Varsity Football Captain. My club experience in Thailand includes stints with several academies, including Lamphun Warriors Youth Academy, Talent Football Club, and Chiang Mai United Youth Academy. I also had the opportunity to play and represent the North Chiang Mai University Football Team and the Chiang Mai United Men’s First Team, which allowed me to compete at a higher level.

My Italian background has always been a strong aspect of my love for the sport. The passion I see among Italian fans has, in a way, shaped my athletic identity and has influenced my playing style. Although I have spent most of my soccer career in Thailand, being Italian has kept me connected to the rich soccer culture of Italy as it is a sport that most play or have played at some point within my family, and I hope to continue this by making my family proud in my athletic achievements.”

What motivated you to pursue your studies in the UK?

“My decision to pursue studies in the UK was driven by my desire to challenge myself both academically and athletically. The UK is renowned for its strong educational institutions, and I wanted to place myself in an environment that would push me to achieve my best.

Additionally, the UK has a vibrant sports culture and competitive university leagues, which align perfectly with my goal of continuing to play soccer at a high level while pursuing my academic interests. Initially, I did consider playing soccer in the US however I found the post-university opportunities to be ample in the UK. Another crucial aspect that I considered was my family. Me being European, I felt much closer to my family who are settled around Europe making it simpler for me to see my family when needed.”

What factors did you consider when selecting potential universities, both academically and athletically?

“When selecting potential universities, I considered several key factors.

Academically, I looked for institutions with strong programs that align with my interests, and where I could see myself growing as a young individual and properly integrating myself into society. The environment of the university was also important for me. Although I do like living in modern areas, I find that living in more quiet areas of the world can also be quite beneficial for my mind, especially as university will require my personal dedication and commitment.

Athletically, I looked for universities with competitive soccer programs and strong coaching staff, where I could continue to develop my skills and contribute to the team. The University of Stirling men’s football programme has opportunities for players to compete in fierce leagues which I found to be something that can really bring refine my skills and qualities as a soccer player taking me up to a higher level. The balance between academic rigor and athletic opportunity was crucial in my decision-making process.”

Can you describe your experience working with our team during the university search and application process?

“ Working with the Student Sport Company during the university search and application process was a very positive experience. The continued guidance provided helped me navigate the, at times, overwhelming process of applying to universities abroad.

The Student Sport Company’s team had various expertise, and this aided me in balancing athletic and academic aspirations ensuring that I was applying to schools where I could thrive both in the classroom and on the field.

The support I received in building my athletic profile and forming my academic applications, prepared me for great opportunities and interest from other prestigious universities across the UK such as Leeds Beckett University, Heriot Watt University and the University of Stirling.”

What are you most looking forward to ahead of your time in Stirling as an athlete and equally as a student?

“As I look ahead to my time in Stirling, I am most excited about the opportunity to immerse myself in a new environment that offers both academic and athletic challenges. I’m looking forward to contributing to the university’s soccer team and growing under a new coaching staff.

On the academic front, I am eager to engage with new people who hold different beliefs and perspectives which will enable me to have a better understanding of how people from across the world think and work. I believe that as an individual, I will be able to grow immensely as there will be responsibilities that I will have to hold, but I will also have a new sense of freedom where I am able to control almost every aspect of my life.

The chance to be part of a diverse community, to explore new interests, and to continue my development as both a student, an athlete and as a young adult is something I’m really looking forward to and something that I will never take for granted.”

Interested in continuing your sporting career and education at a UK University? We can help!

We proudly work with the leading sporting and academic institutions throughout the U.K. and are able to offer international students of all ages and levels of study the opportunity to combine 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.