Imagine getting DM'd by an American coach, thinking it was a scam, realising it was not a scam, being offered a full ride scholarship, committing to an NCAA D1 program in New York, being weeks away from flying over and then being told: "oh you are not eligible to compete in NCAA D1."

This was Angus Alberts' story, an Australian National champion shot putter from Lara, Victoria who went through the college recruitment process on his own. What seemed like a dream opportunity for Angus quickly unravelled. This setback could have ended Angus' American dreams altogether. Instead, it became the first chapter in an even more remarkable journey. With guidance from Study & Play USA, Angus discovered the junior college pathway—initially reluctant but ultimately the perfect fit for his athletic and academic development. Now at Iowa Central Community College, he's thriving both on and off the field, having earned All-American status in outdoor shot put during his freshman year.

Angus and Kelly sit down with Claire to discuss the surprise and confusion when they were told Angus was not eligible for NCAA D1. Surely the coach who had promised a full scholarship would have known from Angus' report cards that he was a few core courses short of the required 16 for NCAA D1?

For aspiring college athletes facing obstacles, Angus offers a powerful perspective: "People will see how you bounce back... I pride myself heavily on it." His journey from disappointment to achievement demonstrates that setbacks often lead to better pathways when met with perseverance.