This year, Bobbie Wortel, a 17-year-old soccer player from Vught, took a remarkable step in his journey as both an athlete and a student. He moved to a boarding school in West Chester, Pennsylvania, where he’s combining his passion for soccer with solid preparation for a potential career at a U.S. college. Bobbie’s path to the United States started close to home with his youth club, Zwaluw, followed by a brief stint at Willem II. However, it was his father—who once attended an American high school himself—who inspired Bobbie to take the leap and pursue his dreams across the Atlantic.
A new chapter: boarding school instead of college
For Bobbie, choosing to attend a boarding school was a deliberate decision. Even though he already had his high school diploma, he opted not to go straight to college. “I wanted to start in a place where I could play with peers my age and properly prepare for college life,” Bobbie explains. Boarding schools in the United States often serve as a stepping stone between high school and college. They give young athletes the chance to further develop their talents while also adjusting to life in a new environment.
For Bobbie, this means having the time to elevate his soccer skills while becoming physically and mentally stronger. He trains three times a day: on the field, in the gym, and alongside a friend. “It’s completely different from the Netherlands, where I used to train twice a week and play a match on Saturdays,” he shares.
The busy life at a boarding school
A typical day at boarding school starts bright and early. At 6:00 AM, Bobbie is up for his first training session, often held in the indoor facilities. Afterward, classes begin, sometimes with a quick stop at the gym in between. Meals are shared in the dining hall, with lunch and dinner bringing students together. In the afternoon, team training takes center stage. After dinner, it’s time for study hours, during which teachers and mentors ensure everyone stays on top of their homework.
The schedule is demanding, but Bobbie appreciates the structure. “Everything is so well-organized here. You live on campus, the classrooms are in the same building as the dorms, and the facilities are excellent,” he says. On weekends, the school often organizes fun activities, like trips to New York City or evenings out go-karting or at the movies.
A different kind of soccer
Soccer in the United States has been an adjustment for Bobbie. The game is more physical and direct compared to the style he was used to in the Netherlands. “Here, the ball moves forward much more often, whereas in the Netherlands we play backward more to build up,” he explains. There are also far more matches to play. During the fall semester, Bobbie sometimes plays up to three games a week. In the spring semester, when the school’s soccer season is over, he joins a local club to keep playing.
The intense match schedule has made Bobbie stronger, but he also realizes just how important school still is. Just like at college, you’re not allowed to play if your schoolwork isn’t up to par.
The benefits of a boarding school
For Bobbie, the boarding school is the perfect stepping stone. It allows him to develop as a player, adjust to life in the United States, and play alongside peers his age. He also sees the long-term benefits for his future. “After these two years, I can still play four more years at college without losing my eligibility,” he says.
Life at a boarding school offers a unique environment. Everyone is motivated to get the best out of themselves, whether it’s in soccer or other sports. “You’re surrounded by people who love sports just as much as I do,” Bobbie shares.
Tips for other soccer players
Bobbie’s tips for young athletes dreaming of a sports career in the United States
- Do Your Research. “Talk to the people at the school through video calls and ask if coaches can send footage of the team,”
Build Strong Relationships. “Make sure there are good connections with coaches and mentors; it really helps with adjusting,”
The future
Bobbie has big goals. He wants to continue developing, enjoy his time at boarding school, and eventually find a college where he can grow both as a soccer player and as a person. “The connections the boarding school has with colleges are a huge help. They know exactly which school is the best fit for you,” he says.
With his perseverance and love for the sport, Bobbie seems ready to make the most of his American journey. His story shows that following your dreams, even when it’s a big leap, is worth every step.
Curious about bobbie’s personal story and his journey to the United States? In our interview, Bobbie shares his experiences of life at a boarding school in West Chester, Pennsylvania, and how this step is preparing him for a future at a U.S. college.
Check the full interview with Bobbie below!
