In April my 18 year old son was 'scouted' by a Representative from a Recruitment College from the US whilst they were in the UK, offering to find him a place at a basketball Prep School/College in the USA due to his outstanding basketball skills/talent. He was contacted by Sam Rines and offered a place at Rise Basketball Academy at as cost of $18,500. The term was to start September offering schooling, housing and basketball tutoring/matches across parts of the USA.
To our family this was a truly expensive amount, but the Recruitment College confirmed that Rise Basketball was a 'reputable Academy' and we were lead to believe by Sam Rines that my son would have a 'once in a lifetime opportunity' to get a College/University Scholarship in the USA.
After paying the fees stated, we were in contact with Sam Rines via email and telephone over a five month period requesting a contract and my sons I-20 Visa Application. All the time we were stalled on both counts. Sam Rines finally said the US Government were not issuing I-20 Visas and to come out on a Visitors Visa and stay at his house.
I contacted the US Immigration and was told an I-20 was imperative and was advised to cancel the placement immediately as he would not be allowed into the US on any other type of Visa other than the I-20. We contacted Sam Rines immediately informing him of this advice and he promised verbally and in writing to refund all monies. Since this time he has not refunded monies and will not contact us despite numerous attempts.
We were understandably distraught, but finally found assistance from the British Basketball Association (US) with this problem and with their help, we now have filed a complaint with the Pennsylvania Attorney General to also assist with our case in gaining a refund.
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