Impington International College is basking in the glory of Tiger Smalls and Luke Kirilenko, two former International Baccalaureate (IB) students who paved the way for success in American soccer. Smalls, a former member of Arsenal's youth team, was drafted by Major League Soccer's Charlotte FC, and Kirilenko led Rider University to the 2023 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) Men's Soccer Championship.
From Impington to America: A journey of dedication and success
Tiger Smalls and Luke Kirilenko's football careers took a big step forward thanks to their foundation days at Impington International College. Smalls honed his skills in the prestigious Arsenal youth organization and was drafted by Charlotte FC, proving his budding talent. Charlotte FC, managed by former Aston Villa and Norwich City manager Dean Smith, have shown great promise under his leadership. Meanwhile, Kirilenko's journey led him to Rider University, where he not only pursued a major in international business, but also became a core player on the university's soccer team. His contributions on the field were recognized with the prestigious Vinnie Palmea Award, recognizing his hard work, academic ability, and invaluable teamwork.
Impington's role in forming future stars
Leanne Gibbons, Vice Principal and Head of Sixth Form at Impington School, expressed immense pride in the achievements of Smalls and Kirilenko. She highlighted how their time together in college and participation in the IB program helped them combine academic excellence with athletic talent. This unique combination played a key role in the transition from the UK to the US competitive sporting arena. Gibbons' belief that the IB program is a gateway to global opportunities is underscored by the success stories of these young athletes.
Looking forward: A bright future on and off the pitch
The career trajectory of Tiger Smalls and Luke Kirilenko after Impington is not only a source of inspiration for current students, but also a beacon of opportunity ahead. With Smalls making waves in Major League Soccer and Kirilenko showing his talent on the college stage, their futures in the sports world look promising. Beyond their athletic achievements, their academic achievements speak volumes about the well-rounded development fostered at Impington. As they continue to excel in their fields, the university community, led by men like Gibbons, looks forward to the future of these outstanding graduates with pride and anticipation.