Abingdon United midfielder Tom Hemmings (pictured) has won a scholarship to play for Oklahoma Drovers in the United States.

The 19-year-old will spend four years at the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma - mixing training and playing football with studying for a degree in physical education.

His big chance came about after he entered the Football Icon competition at London's Linford Christie Stadium.

Although he was out of luck there, he was invited by Firstpoint USA to return to London for another trial, and this led to offers of scholarships in Oklahoma, Florida, New York and New Mexico.

Hemmings, who played for Abingdon's first team last season as well as the reserves and youth side, opted for Oklahoma as they play at the highest level - in a central American league.

A former player for Drayton in the North Berks League as well as Didcot Town Youth and Autotype UTV League side Cross Keys, Hemmings flies out on Wednesday, August 6.

"I think it is brilliant," he said. "It is a good opportunity to go out and do something that I love doing.

"I love training and I think playing football and gaining a qualification and a scholarship is second to being a professional.

"And if that leads to something I want to do in life then it's great and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

"Hopefully it will bring out the best in me and lead to something in the future and open a few more doors - fingers crossed."

In the long term, Hemmings is hoping to make a career as a footballer.

"Hopefully I want to be playing pro, but if it doesn't happen then I would like to go into coaching," he said.

"Obviously it depends on how well I progress out there.

"If I don't get the chance to go pro I will just carry on with my scholarship with coaching which I think a lot of players do if they don't make it out there."

Former Oxford United No 2 Mark Harrison is launching two new venues for his specialised goalkeeping courses in Oxfordshire this summer.

After the success of the Abingdon and Cirencester venues, he is extending the Just4keepers courses that he runs with former Banbury United keeper Simon Tricker to near Witney and Bloxham as well.

The two-day courses, which he runs with former Banbury keeper Simon Tricker, are at Abingdon United on August 18-19, at North Leigh, on August 20-21, and at Bloxham on August 26-27.

Contact Harrison on 01993 868637 or 07958 170591.