MSU soccer program leads in international recruits

The Michigan State University soccer program stands as a testament to the global love for the game. The university’s success in attracting international talent has not only elevated its competitive edge but also fostered a unique cultural exchange that enriches the community.

“I feel like the space is getting better for Michigan. I love how scouts come to local games as well. It gives a real feel for the sport,” said Kevin Jones, a local youth soccer coach and Michigan State University graduate student, who is working toward earning his Union of European Football Association coaching license.

“Lansing has so many great soccer prospects, and I love how Michigan State University cares about this department,” said Andreas Acosta, a local soccer scout originally from El Salvador. 

Coming from a country where soccer is a way of life, Acosta appreciates the opportunities emerging in Michigan.

“When I played in high school, we always used to make jokes like, maybe the next FC Barcelona scout is here watching the games. But at this point, that’s pretty possible,” said Megan Ramoe, a local soccer player in East Lansing. Her admiration for MSU’s commitment to diversity, particularly through the inclusion of international players like Liam Kerrigan, underscores the unique cultural blend that enriches the program. “It brings a sense of diversity I don’t think other universities in the Midwest have in such abundance,” she adds, highlighting the distinctive atmosphere at MSU.

The presence of international students in the MSU soccer program serves as a bridge between cultures, creating a melting pot of techniques, strategies, and perspectives. This diversity is not just a statistic but a living, breathing aspect of the program that shapes every practice, game, and interaction.

“I love it when people try getting involved. It’s part of the game, and it eventually becomes a part of life,” said Michigan local and Big 10 Conference junior director Liam Carragher. “It takes me by surprise when I talk about how we cover everything, from the little league games to the Major League Soccer fixtures it all matters.”

Opportunities are certainly growing, and the professional field also recognizes the potential the space can carry now.

“It’s only getting better from here, watch this space,” Jones said. 

The international opportunities are gaining in rapid fashion for Michigan, and it is far ahead of its competitors when it comes to the scouting department.

“I will definitely be watching with a keen eye this season, but we better get even more international recruits and it just makes it feel different,” Ramoe said.

The season has already kicked off, with MSU winning 4-3 on penalties against Akron in their first game and defeating Dayton 3-2 in the second game of the season. The team faces off against Michigan on March 29.