Jose Fernando Miguel

Jose Fernando Miguel is a former college soccer player from the Netherlands who competed at Life University in the United States from 2020 to 2022. During his time in the U.S., he studied Sport and Exercise Science, while developing both as an athlete and as a person in a highly competitive environment.

Growing up, Jose was always fascinated by the American sports system and the way sport is integrated into education and identity. His interest in the college pathway became more serious after hearing stories from a close friend who had already experienced it firsthand.

That curiosity turned into a decision to take the step himself and fully explore what the college environment had to offer.

Why America?

For Jose, the United States represented something fundamentally different from what he experienced in Europe.

He was drawn to the structure, professionalism, and the ability to combine academics and high-level sport without having to choose between the two.

_{“In the U.S., you don’t have to choose between school or sport. You are pushed to take both seriously, with the right support, structure, and facilities.”}

Beyond the sporting side, the college culture itself played a major role in his decision. Being part of a team, a campus, and a larger community created an environment that naturally pushes you to improve.

For Jose, it was not just a sports decision — it was an opportunity to develop in every aspect of life.

College Experience

During his time in the United States, Jose experienced what it truly means to compete in a demanding and high-performance environment.

One of the most defining moments of his journey was the opportunity to train with the squad of Atlanta United for an extended period.

_{“It was an intense but incredible challenge. Every training session became a test — not just of my ability, but of my mentality, discipline, and work ethic.”}

Competing and training at that level allowed him to measure himself honestly and pushed him to take significant steps forward as both a player and a person.

Personal Development

Jose’s time in the U.S. taught him one key lesson: your limits are often much further than you think — if you take full responsibility for your development.

_{“You learn quickly to adapt, make your own decisions, and get the maximum out of yourself every single day.”}

He also gained a deeper understanding of what it means to live and train like a professional athlete:

• consistency, even when you are tired
• attention to detail
• recovery and discipline
• treating every session as an opportunity to improve

Living abroad also forced him to step outside his comfort zone, which made him mentally stronger and more confident in new environments.

Why Jose Helps Players now hiimself

Jose knows firsthand how impactful the college pathway can be — not only for your development as a player, but also as a person.

He has seen how many talented players feel stuck because they believe they have to choose between sport, education, or stability.

For him, the U.S. offers a solution where those things come together.

_{“It’s more than just playing abroad. It’s an environment that forces you to grow — to take responsibility, to make your own decisions, and to build your future.”}

He wants to guide players through that process in a realistic and honest way, so they understand both the opportunity and what it takes to succeed.

Why He Works with Plus31 Sports

Jose strongly believes that the step to the United States should be approached seriously, with the right guidance and attention to detail.

That is why he aligns closely with the vision of Plus31 Sports.

_{“The college pathway should not be sold as a dream, but approached as a real opportunity — where the right match between player, school, level, and environment is key.”}

What stands out to him is the focus on personal guidance, working closely with both players and their families to ensure they are well prepared.

He also sees strong potential in the growth of the market and believes Plus31 Sports is well positioned to build a strong and trusted network in the U.S.

Advice for Players

Jose’s advice to players who are unsure about taking the step is clear: doubt is normal, but it should not hold you back from exploring your options.

_{“You don’t have to decide everything immediately. Start by understanding what is possible and what fits you.”}

He emphasizes that the U.S. offers something unique:

• the ability to combine sport and education
• a structured environment for development
• a chance to grow mentally and independently

_{“Most players regret the chances they didn’t take. If you feel you can get more out of yourself, this is exactly the kind of step that can change your direction.”}

Interested in the U.S. college pathway?

If you are interested in studying and playing soccer in the United States, you can get in touch with Jose directly or sign up below.