Following an intense three-year try-out, the 19-year-old from Corlette has been accepted on a four-year US scholarship in Jamestown in New York state, where he will be studying criminal justice while plying his soccer skills.

"I will be leaving on August 6 which means that I will miss the start of the semi-finals [for Nelson Bay]. But this is too good an opportunity to let go," Thomas said.

"Yes, the thought of leaving home and heading overseas for four years was a little daunting at first, but I believe it will be a great experience for me as far as both my football and my studies are concerned."

Thomas, one of seven children, began his football career as a five year old with the Nelson Bay club and has played every season since, barring a short stint in the Newcastle league with Kahibah.

Last year he won the club's first grade best and fairest player and this year he leads the goal scoring with eight.

The road to the US has not been easy, starting three years ago with 100 other young hopefuls in a trial at Speers Point.

A series of games, training runs and more trials saw Thomas reach the final 10 and the offer of a lifetime.

"It has been a lot of hard work," the forward and sometime left winger confessed. "Getting selected was very exciting and I feel I have earned my opportunity.

"I will be staying on campus in Jamestown with my own room and facilities."

Thomas is acutely aware of the enormity of accepting the scholarship and the tough journey that lays ahead.

"It will be pretty much full on, studying during weekdays and training for most of the year three times a week while playing once or twice a week."

A fitness fanatic, the lightly built forward - Thomas weighs just 61 kilos and stands at 174cm tall - has remained level headed about his prospects and a potential full time professional career in the round ball game.

"To be honest I know it is going to very competitive in the US, but I intend to give it my best shot and I remain hopeful that I may be able to go on to play the game professionally," he said.

"At the end of the day if it doesn't work out in football, I still have the education to fall back on."

Mum Kellie Meyer described the scholarship as a great reward for her son's efforts over the years.

"I think it is important that our children are provided the opportunity to strive to be the best they can whether that's in sport, study or life," she said.

To support his overseas travel expenses plus books and education, Thomas and his family will host a Bunnings barbecue at Taylors Beach this Sunday, July 7. They have also set up a gofundme page.