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Participating in the Residency Programme at Macclesfield FC International Academy was one of the best decisions aspiring footballer Sofia ever made.
While there are many reasons aspiring professional footballers flock to this prestigious academy, it was an opportunity to discover a different playstyle that captured her attention. “Knowing that there was this opportunity to go to a different country and discover a different style of play, I felt like I had to do it and I couldn’t miss it,” she shares.
The opportunity Sofia speaks of takes place in top-notch facilities – at an academy affiliated with the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) that houses UEFA (Union of European Football Associations) qualified coaches. Here, not only do they help young people improve their game, they help them further their skill set both on and off the field of play.
The six-week Residency Programme is a great way to spark the development of future student-athletes. Following a two, four or six week schedule, students achieve a lot in the academy’s enjoyable and inspirational setting.
A typical week includes five hours of coaching (led by UEFA-qualified coaches) each day, a tailored and vigorous strength and conditioning programme, competitive games against other clubs and their youth academies, and access to a physiotherapist with weekly recovery and rehabilitation sessions.
Every week, coaches check in. They review each student’s progress, set goals and collaborate to determine how players can improve. This includes analysing video sessions of matches and training session to see how each player can improve individually and as part of a team.
The Residency Programme is an all-inclusive package. All students receive a full Adidas playing and training kit issued on arrival and unlimited access to a state-of-the-art gym. They get accommodation at a local four-star hotel, airport pickup and transport (flights excluded), tours of Premier League stadiums, guest speakers (including Premier League stars, sports psychologists, and nutritional experts), off-site entertainment activities, and university visits.
A dedicated Academy restaurant chef provides three meals per day together with comprehensive nutritional guidance.
Those who choose to attend Week Six of the Residency Programme get the chance to train the “Italian way.”. In partnership with Juventus FC, the academy offers a unique training schedule delivered by Juventus academy coaches.
Zachary Martinez is all smiles when asked about the academy. “Training has been very, very good. It’s very intense. It’s very high level and I love every second of it. You can’t find any of this back in the US. Just being here, it means a lot to me,” shares Martinez, who was dubbed “Man of the Match” in one of the games.
Student-athletes from MFC International Academy thrive in the competitive games scheduled. “The team played very well,” says Martinez after one match. “I believe we had possession of the ball most of the game. I am happy with how the back four performed. We moved the ball and counter-attacked very well.”
It’s little surprise why athletes like Martinez have big dreams. “Personally, my goal is to sign a pro contract and it all starts here – one game at a time,” he says. “You got to take training and games seriously. This is just one step closer to that goal.”
MFC International Academy is the UK’s leading full-time soccer and education programme. Source: Macclesfield FC International Academy
Cutting-edge facilities
Residency Programme students get to enjoy incredible facilities. At the newly re-branded leasing.com stadium, there is a state-of-the-art 4G pitch, an on-site gym, a sports bar and a restaurant — with full access to student athletes. At its recently completed 10,000 square-foot club gym, there is the very latest in cardiovascular and strength training equipment, a stunning spin cage and a boxing ring will help you to achieve those personal targets.
Expect safety every step of the way. The vastly experienced Residency team takes full care of all student-athletes during their stay. It starts from an induction meeting on arrival. Dedicated welfare officers at the hotel are available for any questions that you may have and will provide you with relevant support and guidance throughout your stay.
“Macclesfield FC International Academy has everything in place to create and inspire the next generation of footballers and young adults,” says Robbie Savage, former Premier League and International Footballer (Manchester United and Wales). “The facilities at the leasing.com stadium are the envy of the local area and these are supported by a coaching team that mirrors the prestigious nature of the surroundings.”
If you’re looking for a more condensed experience, you can experience MFC International Academy’s Seven Day College ID Clinic. Here, you will enjoy a stimulating initiation into every aspect of the Academy across its two sites – the University of Central Lancashire and Macclesfield Football Club.
Applications for Summer 2023 are now open! Click here to kickstart your career as a professional footballer at MFC International Academy, all while having a summer you’ll never forget!
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