In this episode of Cougars Uncaged, hosts Lonnie Preis and Kylie Walker sit down with Cleary men’s soccer standouts Jack Heald and Oscar Clarke, both originally from England, to talk about their journey to Cleary University and life as international student-athletes. Jack and Oscar share how they were recruited through the same agency, committed to Cleary without ever visiting campus, and quickly found their place on the Cougars soccer program.
The conversation dives into the biggest differences between soccer in England and college athletics in the U.S., the impact Cleary’s coaching staff and teammates have had on their development, and why the people and community on campus mean so much to them. From favorite campus spots like the stadium and wellness center to off-the-field friendships, both players reflect on what makes Cleary feel like home.
The episode also brings plenty of personality with spirited debates over favorite restaurants back home (Nando’s vs. Pizza Express), rapid-fire questions, and thoughtful reflections on the family members who have influenced them most. The show wraps up with a fast-paced Premier League challenge and a trivia question for listeners to win a prize.
It’s a fun, honest, and insightful look at international student-athlete life—on and off the pitch—at Cleary University.
