For Gemma Metcalfe has swapped life in Askern for life in America after winning a soccer scholarship in Oklahoma.

The 19-year-old secured a two-year scholarship at Northern Oklahoma College majoring in physical education.

Echoing the hit film Bend It Like Beckham, Gemma,beat off a number of other hopefuls to win a scholarship.

The teenager found out about an organisation offering football scholarships in the States while she was at Campsmount Technology College.

After taking part in a trial in Manchester the centre forward then impressed American coaches at a weekend in Birmingham.

Gemma, who used to play for the Doncaster Belles development team, was offered several scholarships and chose Northern Oklahoma.

Leaving her friends and family behind she started the course last August.

Gemma said: "There was a massive cultural shock and it took time getting used to the lifestyle.

"Everything is so much bigger food, cars and houses.

"It is very quiet where the college is based so you end up getting to know everyone.

"Also people were very welcoming and would do anything for you which is why I found it very easy settling in without having any family there with me."

As part of the course Gemma studies between 9am and noon then trains between 1pm and 3pm every day.

In her first year she has already proved a hit on and off the pitch.
Last season she scored a late equaliser for Northern Oklahoma College Lady Mavericks in a district final qualifying match with the team going on to win and reach the finals.

In the spring semester she was also appointed the college dean's honour roll for maintaining a minimum average B grade in her studies.

Gemma, who jets back to the States today, will undertake a four year university course after college and will be playing football in America for another three years.

She said the differences between English and American football were that the tempo of the games were much higher and matches more frequent in the States.

"The game is based around fitness compared to the game in England," she added.

"I and other internationals at the college have been able to educate the girls a lot more about tactics and game play. Likewise they have been able to show us other ways to maintain fitness and improve stamina which is so hard in the heat."