From Florida to England – Grace Goes Global

We spoke with Roosevelt University graduate, Grace Beyer as she prepares to embark on her postgraduate year in England.

After recently graduating from Roosevelt University with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Media Studies, Grace Beyer is preparing to begin an exciting new chapter in her student-athlete career—both on and off the basketball court.

With the support of Play Overseas, the 5’6″ guard from Jacksonville, Florida, has secured a postgraduate student-athlete opportunity at a university in the UK, where she’ll compete for a further season while pursuing a master’s degree in Broadcast Journalism.

Grace’s journey has been anything but straightforward. After two ACL tears and three knee surgeries, her path has been shaped by resilience and a deep love for the game. She began her college career at Valdosta State University before transferring to Roosevelt, where she became an Academic All-Conference honoree and helped her team to an NCAA DII South Region title. Now, as she prepares for her postgraduate year overseas, we spoke with Grace about what inspired her to extend her playing career in England—and what it’s been like working with Play Overseas to turn that dream into a reality.

What has your sporting journey looked like so far?

“I’ve been an athlete for as long as I can remember, but my sports journey started with soccer! I played soccer throughout elementary and middle school, transitioning to basketball after making a spontaneous decision to try out for my middle school team. At the time, basketball sounded like a nice break from soccer during the winter season. I never anticipated falling in love with it and quitting soccer altogether to pursue my basketball dreams.

I knew from a young age (soon after I stopped playing soccer) that I wanted to pursue basketball at a high level. My dreams were tested by adversity, and I think that makes my story all the more powerful.

I tore my ACL for the first time when I was 13. I tore my other one before my senior year of high school. After overcoming the physical and mental challenges that come with injury, I found a sense of purpose in encouraging others through my podcast, the “Live with Grace” podcast. I started my podcast a year into my collegiate career, and have continued to grow an online community of athletes, dreamers and leaders on social media to this day.

I attended Valdosta State University for my first two years of college, and Roosevelt University for my second two years. I recently graduated from Roosevelt University with my Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Media Studies (major) and Psychology (minor).”

Born in Jacksonville, Florida, Grace attended Nease High School before beginning her college basketball journey at Valdosta State University. As a member of the Lady Blazers, she gained valuable experience competing at the NCAA Division II level, reaching the semi-finals of the GSC Tournament during her second season.

Why did you feel that playing overseas was the right next step for you?

“Playing overseas was the right next step for me because it is an opportunity to continue to play the sport I love while traveling the world and meeting new people.

What drew you to Nottingham Trent University?

“I was drawn to Nottingham Trent for its accredited Journalism postgraduate courses. I am excited to further my education and earn my Broadcast Journalism masters degree. I was also drawn to NTU after my conversations with Coach Dan Watts. He seems to be a great coach and a coach that truly cares about his athletes. I am excited to play for Nottingham Trent’s Women’s Basketball team while pursuing my masters in journalism.

After transferring to Roosevelt University following her sophomore year, Grace made 45 appearances for the Lakers across two seasons. Her time in Chicago saw her earn Academic All-Conference honours and contribute to a South Region championship-winning campaign.

What are you most looking forward to during your year overseas?

“I am most looking forward to playing basketball in new places and meeting new people! I am also excited to continue to stretch myself as a reporter and interview people from different places and backgrounds.”

What are your academic and athletic goals while in the UK?

“My academic goals are to earn my masters degree and to connect with other students in the scholarship program from around the world. My athletic goals are to enjoy playing basketball and compete for a championship for NTU.”

In 2022, Grace launched the Live with Grace podcast—a platform for athletes, dreamers, and leaders—which has since grown across multiple podcast and social media platforms. Now pursuing a master’s in Broadcast Journalism, she hopes to turn her passion for storytelling and athlete advocacy into a future career in sports media.

How did Play Overseas support you through the recruitment process?

“Play Overseas was the catalyst for my postgraduate recruiting journey. They contacted me with schools in the UK, including NTU, and have been extremely helpful in navigating every step of the process.

They have done a great job of following up with me on tasks/information and expediting the recruiting process. Everyone I’ve communicated with has been kind and patient.

What advice would you give to other student-athletes considering this path?

“My advice to other student athletes would be to go for it! Don’t let your past or your fear of the unknown deter you.”