Conor Corboy has found his path to success. From college to SMI in Italy to dream big

Conor Corboy is an Irish-American who moved from Ireland to California when he was 10. He played for three different schools: University of Nebraska Omaha, Mississippi College and Hartwick College in New York and now he is flying to Italy to attend Soccer Management Institute.

“I chose to attend SMI in Italy because I believe it is an amazing opportunity for people who are passionate about the game. I expect to learn a great deal of information on Italian tactics other than having an amazing time in the beautiful city of Florence. The fact that I get to keep playing and the journey to Italy were all amazing aspects that equally influenced my final decision.”

Excitement is probably the most accurate word to describe Conor’s current mood and state of mind. “I am not sure if there is one specific thing that excites me about living in Italy. The opportunity, the culture and history, the football… it is all exciting! I first thought the program was too good to be true but now I am about to start this amazing journey and I can’t be more excited. I think a masters degree in Sports management will open many doors for me in the US and hopefully in Europe.”

Other than earning a master’s degree in Sports Management & Soccer Coaching, Conor will have the opportunity to showcase his talent as a player being part of an Italian soccer team for the whole year long. He is going to face a lot of differences in terms of how the game is played in Italy compared to the US but he will not be caught unprepared:”I think there are significant differences tactically, historically and at the youth development level but, in terms of adapting to the Italian soccer league, I believe the best way to succeed is to study the Italian game and take in as much information as possible from the teachers and coaches. I need to be comfortable with letting them mold me into the player/student they want, while showcasing attributes I already possess.”

Few days until his arrival in Florence and the dream is about to become true. However, dreaming is the secret of living a happy life and when we ask Conor to close his eyes and start dreaming again, this is what he sees:

“Happiness and Success. And right now I am very happy because I figured out the next step in my life which is Soccer Management Institute, my path to a successful life”

SMI Press Office