12/25/24
The Path To Pro

Marco is a perfect example of what Golden Ball Agency aspires for all of our clients. There is a specific pathway that we think is best for our players to take in order to become a professional footballer. 

Going through the youth system in North America and then finding your way into University is the natural progression that we  encourage our players to take. The Central Midfield dynamo from Ontario has done just that. He even started at the Junior College level before you found his way to Division I outfit, LaSalle University in the Atlantic10 Conference. After great success at the Junior College level with West Liberty University and Louisberg College, he didnt find the same fate with the Explorers. Since there was a bit of a road block in progression in Philadelphia, a decision had to be made. Should he enter the trasnfer portal again and try to find a new Division I program to give it a final go at the collegiate level or should we now move forward and start to play at the next level?The decision was made to sign with USL2 Club The Villeges in Florida and see how things go from there. "The squad at the Villeges was solid and a lot options in midfield. Never really got a chance to show myself during the season" said Marco as he recalls his time in the USL2. Once the season ended, he found his way to NISA Nation League side BattleBorn FC in Reno,Nevada. There is where he was able to continue to sharpen his game and get regular minutes weekly. As he adapted to his new environemnts and started to get comfortable, a move away was always on the cards. Marco wanted and deserved more. As he continued to work hard and improve his game, Golden Ball delved into it's resources and made a connection that would enchance Marco's footballing aspirations. After about eight or nine months in Reno, Marco was ready and looking to try his luck in Germany or Spain. 

After some deliberation, the decsion was made to go on trial in Germany. Upon his arrive in Europe, Marco still had to continue to work and show his quality. Before long, Marco was approached by scouts from German 5th Division side, SV Wilhelmshaven. He now is another step closer to the top of German footbal and closer to his ultimate goal. It's an arduous road to achieve such a big dream but Marco is so close and he has made so many in his corner proud of his resiliance and perseverance. Once he signed his new contract with his new club, Marco told us " Thank you for your constant support". 

Just a little over a year ago Marco at times didn't think this would be possible. Imagine where he could be in the next 10-14 months with this great work either and his willingness to constantly give his maximum. Big things are still yet to come for Marco in his journey and we'll be by his side the whole way. Speaking with the new signing, he was asked, what's next? The Canadian Midfield Maetro said, "now I plan to force my way into that first XI and help SV Wilhemshaven gain promotion!". 

This story is going to have a happy ending and hopefully many other who have the same dream can take some inspiration from Marco and understand that with some hard work, support and good fortune they too can get somewhere within the world of football.