Kiril Smirnov

Founder, Netlink Football

"Netlink Football is personal by design. I built it the way I wish recruiting support actually worked: honest guidance, clear communication, and genuine long-term relationships with athletes and coaches.

Netlink started in 2023 as a way to help players find professional and academy opportunities. After going through the U.S. college system myself and helping other athletes navigate it — I made a full transition to build Netlink into a college recruiting agency."

My Story

I’ve lived the journey from the inside — not as an observer, but as a player who had to figure it out in real time.

I played five years of college soccer across three programs:

  • Started at Folsom Lake College (NJCAA)
  • Transferred to Duquesne University (NCAA Division I)
  • Transferred for Master’s to Radford University (NCAA Division I)

Along the way, I also competed in two USL League Two seasons, which gave me another perspective on development, exposure, standards, and what it really takes to keep progressing.

That combination — JUCO → D1 transfer → D1 graduate program → USL2 — means I understand the process at every level: recruiting, academics, eligibility, training culture, playing time realities, transfers, and the day-to-day life of a college athlete.

Why Netlink Exists

I’m not building Netlink to “send out profiles.” I’m building it to prevent regret.

When I look back at my early college years, I know I would’ve made better decisions if someone credible had been there to guide me.

That’s the purpose of Netlink:

To give athletes genuine guidance and real support, so they don’t look back wishing they did it differently.

Because recruiting isn’t just about getting an offer — it’s about choosing the right environment for who you are and where you’re trying to go.

Our Network

While Netlink Football is intentionally personal and athlete-focused, it is not built in isolation. I work closely with a small group of trusted strategic partners who support different parts of the process, including college recruiting operations, academic and eligibility guidance, performance preparation, and professional pathway advising.

Each partner brings direct experience within the U.S. college system or the professional game. This collaborative structure allows Netlink to remain selective and personal, while ensuring athletes benefit from a broader network of expertise and insight throughout their journey.