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Because of the improved fortunes in international competition of the Republic of Ireland soccer team and increased media interest in the game, many youngsters embark on their dream to be a full-time professional player. Soccer in Ireland is mostly played on a part-time basis, with few openings for full-time professionals. English clubs are now recruiting youngsters at an early age through their football academies, and competition for playing positions is intense. This article outlines the implications for youngsters in Ireland of recent market developments in England and draws on theory and evidence to shed light on the nature of career planning undertaken by aspiring professional players. Details are also provided on the social networks that best facilitate a youth's career development given her decision to "go international" (to England).C oakley (1998) asserted that, in general, the opportunities for satisfying and rewarding occupational careers in sports exist, adding that the number of opportunities for athletes is severely limited and that they are short term. A career in professional soccer is perceived by certain individuals to have many positive features such as high financial rewards, status, and so forth, and few entry barriers apart from talent, good health, and luck. Yet like other professions, it is demanding and has a high wastage or failure rate, especially during the early years (Hardwick, 1999; O'Donoghue, 1999). For many individuals, pursuing a career in professional soccer involves relocation, and some young players are being shipped to distant lands to chase career goals. Northcroft (2002) noted the increase in the number of young overseas players in the reserve teams at leading English clubs-Liverpool, Arsenal, and others. The practice of Irish players joining English clubs was established decades ago; consequently, developments within the English game also tend to have a significant affect on the game in Ireland, particularly in relation to youth policies (Hannigan, 1998). Maguire and Stead (1998) asserted that many English club personnel consider Ireland a fertile and relatively cheap source of readily available raw talent.