North American soccer players can combine training in Europe at professional clubs with their academic education, but it requires careful planning and consideration of a few key factors. Here’s how this can typically work:
We currently work with several professional clubs that can enable our players to continue their education. This may involve online high-school education for short-stay trials or high-school or university education onsite for players who fully enable themselves within programs for the entire season.
Every player has a unique journey and we will meet with families to map out the best pathway for each player - depending upon their individual requirements.
Pathways to Combine Soccer and Education
Joining Clubs with Academic PartnershipsSome professional European clubs have partnerships with local schools or universities to support young players' education while they train and compete. These programs often provide flexible scheduling or online learning options to accommodate athletes’ demanding schedules.
Enrolling in International SchoolsPlayers under 18 who relocate with their families can enroll in international schools near the club. These schools often follow curricula (e.g., IB, British, or American systems) that align with their home country’s academic standards.
Online or Distance Learning ProgramsMany young players pursue their education through online platforms that offer flexibility. Institutions like K12, Connections Academy, or other virtual schools allow players to continue their studies while focusing on soccer development.
University Partnerships or Dual Career ProgramsSome European clubs have partnerships with universities or offer dual career pathways, enabling players to pursue higher education while training professionally. Examples include programs in the UK, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, and Scandinavia, where balancing sports and academics is a priority.
Considerations and Challenges
Work Eligibility and Player Contracts
Players under 18 are subject to FIFA's regulations on international transfers. They must meet specific criteria, such as relocating with their family or living within a certain distance from the club.
For players over 18, work permits and visa requirements must be addressed, which can vary depending on the country.
Cultural and Language Barriers
Players need to adapt to new environments, including language differences, which can affect both their soccer and academic experiences. Choosing a program with language support can be beneficial.
Balancing Time Commitments
The demands of professional training and education can be intense. Success requires excellent time management and support from coaches and educators.
Academic Recognition and Continuity
Ensuring that academic qualifications are recognized internationally is crucial for continuity, especially if the player returns to North America or pursues university studies.
Benefits of This Pathway
Enhanced Development: Training at professional European clubs exposes players to high-level coaching, competitive environments, and advanced facilities.
Global Perspective: Balancing academics and soccer in a foreign country helps players develop independence and adaptability.
Dual Career Security: Pursuing education ensures players have career options if professional soccer does not work out or post-retirement.
Examples of Successful Players
Many players have combined education with professional training, especially those who joined academies that prioritize holistic development (e.g., Ajax, Bayern Munich, and Scandinavian clubs). Programs like Red Bull Salzburg and FC Midtjylland are known for focusing on dual career pathways for athletes.
With proper planning, combining professional soccer training in Europe with academics is feasible and can offer North American players unique growth opportunities. One of our former players, Keito Lipovschek, trained at English Professional Club Fleetwood Town for 2 years and completed his education there. He was subsequently signed by Fleetwood Town for their partner club in Dubai and is now playing professionally in Dubai.
Below : Learn more about how professional clubs in England support educational pathways for their academy players. (source: Sky Sports UK).
