A footballer from County Down is encouraging young people to explore US soccer scholarship programmes after securing a place at an American university.

Ashleigh Scott-Brown, 20, from Ballywalter, first learned of the opportunity through a social media post by First Point USA promoting trials in Belfast. She attended the trials at her mother's suggestion.

Scott-Brown enrolled at Union Commonwealth University in Kentucky, where she plays right-back for the Bulldogs. In her first year, she started 17 matches, typically playing 80 to 90 minutes each game, and scored one goal.

She also received an Appalachian Athletic Conference champions of character award, which recognises student athletes who display integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship and leadership.

Now back in Northern Ireland for the summer, Scott-Brown is playing for local side Ards Rangers Women. She said balancing full-time studies with soccer was made manageable by the university's support structures, including designated study hall sessions and an expectation that players bring laptops on away trips to keep up with coursework.

Her advice to others considering a similar path is to step out of their comfort zone and embrace the experience. She said that if things do not work out, returning home is always an option.