Draft:Liam Barrett

Liam James Barrett (born 12 January 1989) is an English former footballer and entrepreneur. Barrett played college soccer for Illinois Institute of Technology and won many accolades during his time playing and studying in America including twice being voted the Academic All-American of the year in 2011 and 2012.

He was inducted into the Scarlet Hawks' inaugural Hall of Fame in 2022, alongside infamous baseball coach Jim Darrah who trained Michael Jordan during his time playing for Chicago White Sox. Barrett is the Founder and Managing Director of the sports scholarship agency U.S Sports Scholarships.

Playing career

Barrett was born in Ipswich, England. He began his career with Norwich City FC at the age of 9 before moving to his hometown club of Ipswich Town FC. He remained at the club until 19 working his way up to under-18 and reserve team level. Following his scholarship at Ipswich Town he played for semi-professional football club Bury Town before then departing for America.

During his four years at Illinois Institute of Technology, he broke the school and conference records for goals and overall points, tallying 61 goals, 24 assists, and 144 points in just 69 appearances. He was a four-time first-team all-conference player and twice named the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference Player of the Year.

Background

Since moving back to the United Kingdom in 2013, Barrett obtained an M.B.A. from the University of East Anglia, and was recognised as student of the year in the process. He also runs his own company, U.S. Sports Scholarships, which employs more than 50 staff members from around the world and has successfully helped hundreds of student-athletes from across the globe with their placement at American universities.