BASINGSTOKE-born footballer Josh Hardy has landed a prestigious US soccer scholarship.

Coached by Reading FC legend Dave Kitson, Hardy will hop across the pond to join Oklahoma's Conners State College on July 30.

The 18-year-old winger hails from Christchurch, New Zealand, since moving there as a two-year-old. He received guidance from Mr Kitson during a family visit near Newbury last December.

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Mr Kitson said: "Josh had a fantastic attitude.

"You could see he was determined to learn and do well and I was impressed with how he took the coaching on board and applied it. I wish him well in his new venture in Oklahoma."

Hardy has been coached by Reading FC legend Dave KitsonHardy has been coached by Reading FC legend Dave Kitson (Image: Supplied)

The US college has a proven record in nurturing sports stars. Their sports teams, affectionately known as the Cowboys and Cowgirls, have produced numerous professional athletes.

Although they are most recognised for developing baseball talent, the institution's graduates include Major League players for Boston Red Sox, Kansas City Royals, Cleveland Indians, Toronto Blue Jays, Oakland Athletics and Houston Astros.

These include Julio Lugo, Boston Red Sox's World Series title winner in 2007, and Jordan Romano, a current pitcher for Toronto Blue Jays.