Dandy Town striker Dante Leverock has been given the chance to further his football and academic education at St. Mary’s College University in England.Leverock, 20, is due to attend the London university later this month where he will fulfill his ambitions on a three-year sports coaching and science course scholarship.Former Bermuda Football Association (BFA) technical director Derek Broadley, who coached Leverock in the National Academy, recommended him to the university.Leverock, cousin of top Bermuda player Khano Smith, had been on the verge of starting at a different UK university but after visiting the facility changed his mind.He will also play for Staines Town FC in the Blue Square Conference South.“I’m ecstatic to be gaining a quality education at my university but even moreso to be able to combine my education and playing a high standard of football,” said Leverock. “The team I am playing for now is Staines Town FC which play in the Blue Square Conference South.“This chance all came about through a coach I played for last season who was impressed with me and wanted to help me play at a higher level.“He actually helped me to sign for Bedfont Town FC who played in The Evo-Stik League Southern, Division One Central last season and has helped me to sign for Staines Town.”Patience will be key for the youngster who is behind on match sharpness and also learning the trade of becoming a defensive midfielder, while also admitting that he didn’t expect his luck to carry him to where he is today.“I actually started pre-season a little later so I’m gaining match fitness and experience with the reserve side of Staines Town so once I’m fit I will be looking to push for a first team place but patience in my case is key.“After last season I am now a central defender/defensive midfielder, a big change from being a forward and I have really excelled in my new defensive role.“It’s been a long tough road since my injury a few years ago and I wasn’t sure if I would have a future in playing football but I have made certain sacrifices and put in the extra hours in the gym and on the field to get back to my best.“Hard work truly does pay off and I will continue to put in the hard work to establish my self over here in the UK.”