SDA Success Stories

SDA Athletes Who Took Their Skills to the USA

These are just some of the stories of the athletes that have gone through the SDA process and have been given the opportunity to showcase their talent in the USA.

John Carroll

After a wonderful performance at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp, John Carroll was awarded the Camp MVP in addition to being the camp’s 1v1 and three point contest winner. John’s excellent performance led him to get attention from numerous prep schools and colleges in the USA. John’s SDA experience led to John enjoying a standout season as a postgraduate at The Hill School in Pottstown, PA.

Consistently the top-scorer at The Hill School, averaging just under 20 points per game and grabbing nine rebounds per game, John helped lead The Hill School to a 20-3 record which included the school’s first-ever Pennsylvania Independent School Athletic Association (PAISAA) State Championship.

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As a result John earned a scholarship to Hartford University under the guidance of head coach John Gallagher where he competed in the America East Conference, Division I (NCAA). John finished his excellent collegiate career as a 1,000 point scorer at Hartford University. In his senior year Hartford made the daunting trip to Cameron Indoor Stadium to take on Duke where Carroll faced future NBA stars Zion Williamson (New Orleans Pelicans) and RJ Barrett (New York Knicks).

After graduating from college John continues to excel in both his professional basketball career (Spain) and International basketball career (captaining the Irish Senior Men’s team).

“SDA was key for me to get seen by a number of schools in the USA. Following the SDA Elite Invitational Camp I accepted a scholarship to play at the Hill School, PA. From there I played D1 at Hartford and have pursued a professional and International career. None of this would be possible without SDA and I recommend it for any top Irish student-athlete” – John Carroll (Irish International)

Watch John’s highlights at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp

Sean Flood

Sean was a standout athlete at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp where he won Camp Co-MVP and the 3-Point Contest. He showed true leadership skills throughout that camp and impressed a number of American college coaches with his shooting ability, decision-making and character. Sean’s SDA Camp highlights and SDA Player Profile put his talents in the shop window and served as the starting point for many interested American prep school and college coaches.

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Sante Fe College proved to be the most keen to get Sean on board given the fit between Sean and Sante Fe’s athletic and academic requirements.

After a successful campaign at Sante Fe College Sean earned a scholarship to Longwood University who compete in the Big South Conference, Division 1 (NCAA). Sean had a great career at Longwood University where he was an instrumental leader both on and off the court and was the team’s most potent 3-point shooter.

After graduating from college Sean continues to excel in both his professional basketball career (Cyprus) and International basketball career (starting for the Irish Senior Men’s team).

“SDA was extremely helpful in both developing my skills at the Invitational Camp, and then getting my game out there through my highlights and through the SDA Player Profile Service. These tools were so important in getting me the exposure I needed to go follow my student-athlete dream to play and study in the USA. Every young athlete who is serious about reaching their potential should be a part of SDA” – Sean Flood (Irish International)

“We are very grateful for the support and guidance SDA has provided both Sean and ourselves as his parents – it made the process much clearer and SDA is an invaluable service to any aspiring Irish student-athlete out there who wants to get noticed” – Margaret Flood (Sean’s Mother)

Watch Sean’s highlights at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp

Jordan Blount

Jordan was a standout athlete at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp where he won Camp Co-MVP and the 1v1 Contest. He showed huge potential throughout that camp and impressed a number of American college coaches with his athleticism, toughness and defensive abilities. Jordan’s SDA Camp highlights and SDA Player Profile put his talents in the shop window and served as the starting point for many interested American prep school and college coaches.

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Following SDA Jordan ultimately committed to the University of Illinois-Chicago on full scholarship. The University of Illinois-Chicago competes in the Horizon Conference, Division 1 (NCAA). Jordan had a great career with the UIC Flames where his all-round game made a positive impact on both the offensive and defensive ends of the floor where he averaged 6.3 ppg and 4 rpg as a senior.

After graduating from college Jordan continues to excel in both his professional basketball career (Spain, Iceland) and International basketball career (starting for the Irish Senior Men’s team).

“SDA provides the most elite basketball camp in Ireland for both skill development and recruitment to college in America. SDA really helped me in my student-athlete career and I would recommend it for any up and coming Irish student-athlete.” – Jordan Blount (Irish International)

Watch Jordan’s highlights at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp

Conor Quinn and Aidan Quinn

After a wonderful performance at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp, twins Conor and Aidan Quinn impressed a number of American college coaches with their basketball IQ, shooting ability and leadership skills.

Their SDA Camp highlights and SDA Player Profile put their talents in the shop window and served as the starting point for many interested American prep school and college coaches. Both Conor and Aidan decided to both commit to play at Mayville State University, who compete in the North Star Athletic Conference, Division 2 (NAIA).

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Both Conor and Aidan made an immediate impact at Mayville State University through their shooting ability and basketball IQ, and this continued throughout their collegiate careers. After graduating from college both Conor and Aidan continue to excel in the Irish Superleague and with their respective International basketball careers.

“The Sport Dream Academy experience is something I would love to do all over again. The opportunity to get up every morning and go and compete with the best players in the country and be coached by the top coaches is one that doesn’t come around too often.” – Conor Quinn (Irish International)

Watch Conor and Aidan’s highlights at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp

Ryan Leonard

Ryan had an excellent SDA Elite Invitational Camp where he impressed a number of American college coaches with his athleticism, scoring ability, team play and character. Ryan’s SDA Camp highlights and SDA Player Profile put his talents in the shop window and served as the starting point for many interested American prep school and college coaches. Sante Fe College proved to be the most keen to get Ryan on board given the fit between Sean and Sante Fe’s athletic and academic requirements.

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After a successful campaign at Sante Fe College where Ryan averaged 12.2 ppg, he then earned a scholarship to Eastern Illinois who competed in the Ohio Valley Conference, Division 1 (NCAA). Ryan is making a positive impact at Eastern Illinois and is on track to have a successful college career both on and off the court.

Ryan continues to excel in both his college basketball career and his International basketball career and will no doubt be a big asset to the Men’s Senior National team in the years to come.

“SDA was very helpful in supporting my dream to play and study in the USA” – Ryan Leonard (Eastern Illinois)

Watch Ryan’s highlights at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp

Killian Gribben

Killian was a standout athlete at two SDA Elite Invitational Camps where he was easily recognisable as one of the best post players at camp. He showed true leadership skills throughout that camp and impressed a number of American college coaches with his work ethic, basketball IQ and post presence. Killian’s SDA Camp highlights and SDA Player Profile put his talents in the shop window and served as the starting point for many interested American prep school and college coaches. One of the interested coaches was SDA Coach Drew Dawson who is the head coach at top prep school Choate Academy. Killian ended up earning a spot to play at Choate Academy Prep school where he excelled as an inside player on both the offensive and defensive end.

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After a successful campaign at Choate Academy Killian committed to Siena College who compete in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, Division 1 (NCAA). Killian is just beginning is college career and will aim to make a big impact with Siena College over the next few years. Killian also represents Ireland at U20 level where he has been a major factor to the team’s success and will continue to wear the green jersey into the future.


“SDA was critical in both developing my skills at the Invitational Camp, and then getting my game out there through my highlights and through the SDA Player Profile Service. SDA enabled me to follow my student-athlete dream to play and study in the USA. Every young athlete who is serious about reaching their potential should be a part of SDA” – Killian Gribben (Siena College)


“We are so very grateful that SDA exists. It provides a service that is badly needed in Ireland which is to help educate both athletes and parents on what is involved with the scholarship process. The SDA Elite Invitational Camp was excellent in terms of player development and SDA made the scholarship process much clearer for everyone involved. SDA is an invaluable service to any aspiring Irish student-athlete (and parents) who want to know what it takes to get to the next level” – Brian Gribben (Killian’s Father)

Watch Killian’s highlights at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp

Jamie Muldowney

Jamie was a standout athlete at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp where he was awarded camp MVP. He showed huge potential throughout that camp and impressed a number of American college coaches with his shooting ability, length and overall skillset. Jamie’s SDA Camp highlights and SDA Player Profile put his talents in the shop window and served as the starting point for many interested American prep school and college coaches. Jamie earned an opportunity to play at Trinity Collegiate Prep school where he excelled as a scoring threat.

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After a successful campaign at Trinity Collegiate Jamie then earned a scholarship to Coker College who compete in the South Athletic Conference, Division 2 (NCAA). Jamie is just beginning is college career and will aim to make a big impact with Coker College over the next few years. Jamie also represents Ireland at U20 level where he has been a major factor to the team’s success and will continue to wear the green jersey into the future.


“SDA was the key starting point for my basketball journey outside of Ireland. The Elite Invitational Camp helped to develop my game while getting my talents noticed through my highlights and through the SDA Player Profile Service. I highly recommend that every young student-athlete who is serious about reaching their potential should be a part of SDA” – Jamie Muldowney (Coker College)


“SDA provides a much needed service that really helps both athletes and parents on what is involved with the scholarship process. They provide expert coaching and really helpful tools to improve the chances of good athletes furthering their careers abroad. Without SDA Jamie would not be where he is today and it is an invaluable service to any aspiring Irish student-athlete (and parents) who want to know what it takes to get to the next level” – Sandra Muldowney (Jamie’s Mother)


Watch Jamie’s highlights at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp

Ryan Djoussa

Ryan stood out at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp where he showed huge potential throughout camp and impressed a number of American college coaches with his athleticism, length and post presence. Ryan’s SDA Camp highlights and SDA Player Profile put his talents in the shop window and served as the starting point for many interested American prep school and college coaches. Ryan ultimately earned an opportunity to play at Trinity Collegiate Prep School where he had an impressive career on both ends of the floor.

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Ryan then earned a scholarship to South Georgia Tech who compete in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA). Ryan is just beginning is college career and will aim to make a big impact with South Georgia Tech over the next few years. Ryan has represented junior Irish teams and continues to do so.


“SDA was extremely important in helping me and family understand the scholarship process and how to get to the next level.” – Ryan Djoussa (South Georgia Tech)


Watch Ryan’s highlights at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp

Nelson Fotso Tounmo

Nelson put in an impressive showing at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp where he showed huge potential throughout camp and got the attention of a number of American college coaches with his athleticism, speed and toughness. Nelson’s SDA Camp highlights and SDA Player Profile put his talents in the shop window and served as the starting point for many interested American prep school and college coaches. Nelson ultimately earned an opportunity to play at Aim High Academy where he continues to develop and compete at a high level.

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Nelson is receiving lots of interest from US colleges and is expected to continue his student-athlete career in the US into the future. Nelson has represented junior Irish teams and continues to do so.

“SDA gave me a road-map to follow to develop my game and showcase my skills to US coaches.” – Nelson Fotso Tounmo (Aim High Academy)


Watch Nelson’s highlights at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp

Clinton Efinda

Clinton put in an impressive showing at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp where he showed huge potential throughout that camp and impressed a number of American college coaches with his athleticism, scoring ability and competitiveness. Clinton’s SDA Camp highlights and SDA Player Profile put his talents in the shop window and served as the starting point for many interested American prep school and college coaches. Clinton ultimately earned an opportunity to play at St. John the Baptist Highschool where he continues to develop and compete at a high level.

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Clinton has represented junior Irish teams and continues to do so. Clinton is receiving lots of interest from US colleges and is expected to continue his student-athlete career in the US into the future.


“SDA was really helpful in supporting my student-athlete career.” – Clinton Efinda (St. John the Baptist Highschool)


Watch Clinton’s highlights at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp

Ruairi Cronin

Ruairi is a standout Irish International U18 athlete who gained recognition through SDA by a number of US prep schools. One of the interested coaches was SDA Coach Drew Dawson who is the head coach at top prep school Choate Academy. Ruairi ended up earning a spot to play at Choate Academy Prep school where he is excited to contribute to the team in this upcoming season. Coach Dawson liked his ability to score and overall decision-making skills. We wish Ruairi the best in the next chapter of his student-athlete career at Choate Academy.

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“SDA was invaluable to both myself and Ruairi in this process. The SDA team is extremely knowledgeable and they gave us great advice throughout the process. We are delighted with the result and want to thank SDA for their expertise and support. Without a doubt SDA provide a key service to any aspiring Irish student-athlete (and parents) who want to know what it takes to get to the next level” – Donal Cronin (Ruairi’s Father)



Watch Ruairi’s highlights at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp

Charlie Coombs

Charlie was a standout athlete at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp where he impressed SDA coaches with his scoring ability, athleticism and decision-making skills. Charlie worked hard at the SDA Elite Invitational camp and was viewed by many of the coaching staff as one of the top 5 players at camp. Following on from this, Charlie signed up with SDA’s Athlete Profile Service where he then uploaded his camp highlight film and contacted hundreds of coaches at programmes he believed could be right for him. Based on Charlie’s excellent performance at camp, his highlights and his athlete profile which was circulated to a number of coaches in the US, he received interest from a number of college programs.

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After reviewing his options Charlie signed a letter of intent to play for Coach Green at Southeastern Oklahoma State University. Southeastern play in the Great American Conference (NCAA Division 2) where they are highly competitive year after year. Charlie had a good experience at Southeastern Oklahoma State where he contributed on both ends of the floor. Charlie then returned to Ireland to compete at the Superleague level, where he continues to shine as one of the top Irish guards in the Irish league.



Watch Charlie’s highlights at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp

Cian Sullivan

Kerry native Cian Sullivan attended multiple SDA Elite Invitational Camps where he impressed SDA coaches with his height, length and agility for a 7 footer. In addition, SDA coaches recognized Cian as the most improved player throughout the SDA Elite Invitational Camps. Based on his standout performances at the SDA Elite Invitational Camps, and through all of his hard work on developing his game, Cian secured a place in the prestigious prep school of St. Andrews where he added value right away on both ends of the floor.

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St. Andrews’ coach Mike Hart was impressed with Cian’s development and he received interest from college coaches very quickly while competing at the prep school level. In fact, one college decided not to wait and offered Cian a full scholarship. Cian earned a scholarship to play for LaSalle University who compete in the Atlantic 10 Conference Division 1 NCAA under the excellent guidance of head coach John Giannini. After graduating from college Cian continues to pursue his professional basketball career in Europe. Cian has also been involved with International programmes throughout his career to date.



Watch Cian’s highlights at the SDA Elite Invitational Camp

Ali Mackay

Ali posted an impressive 2.3 points and 1.8 rebounds a game, averaging 10.6 minutes a game in the U20 European Division B Championships for Great Britain in 2010. Ali made 8-of-11 field goal attempts he averaged 11.1 points and 6.5 rebounds a game for Team Scotland in the 2009 U18 European Championships. He has played on Scotland national team for his age group since he was 14. Ali was named to Scottish Senior National Team in 2009. Unsurprisingly Ali averaged 18.3 points, 12.1 rebounds, 2.6 blocks and 2.7 assists for his club team last season. He then went on to play for head coach Bob McKillop at the prestigious, Davidson Wildcats North Carolina, in the NCAA Division I. .

Heres a link to Ali’s highlights https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AlfyAb8Vh6I

Grant Mackay

Grant is currently attending Saint Anselm. So far Grant has played two seasons with his team. Grant Has also represented Great Britain at European Championships. He as recorded an impressive 6 points per game and in 2013 help lead the team to a silver place finish. They were promoted in 2014 to Division 1 and he helped lead the team to an 11th place finish. Saint Anselm compete in the Northeast-10 Conference Division 2 NCAA.

Heres a link to Johns highlights when he was with us at SDA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9NrbAm2F4l8