*BS*Dover Athletic FC Academy player and Abbey School student, Joshua Donnelly, has accepted a full scholarship to The Eastern Florida State University.*BF*

JJ will be studying Sports Coaching/ Science at the Florida University whilst playing Football (soccer) in the NCJ AA Division.

The University boasts excellent indoor and outdoor training facilities whilst accommodating 1000 supporters at each of their matches. All matches are televised and can be seen worldwide. JJ’s offer means he will not have to pay for tuition fees or living costs while he studies.

Mike Sandmann, Academy Manager said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for JJ and there is not a player who deserves it more than him. Throughout his two years with Dover Athletic Academy I have seen JJ develop as a player and a character.

“His work ethic is second to none, he always wants to improve and his desire for success has always been something that has really pleased me as his manager. To be offered a scholarship in America is a real achievement but to be offered a full scholarship with no fees is just testament to his hard work and constant willingness to improve as a player.

“I couldn’t be happier for him and will be looking forward to keeping tracks on his progress whilst he is away”.

JJ added: “I am really looking forward to going and having this once in a life time experience. I was looking forward to going to America in itself, but Florida makes it even better. I also can’t wait to play at a high level of football with the best facilities; hopefully, this can be the start of helping me to achieve my dream goal”.

Dover Athletic Chairman, Jim Parmenter said: “It’s fantastic to see the great work at the Academy providing such a wonderful opportunity and it demonstrates another example of how the Club’s work in the community and education is bearing fruit”.