The 27 graduates of the inaugural edition of the programme, offered in collaboration with Johan Cruyff Institute, developed talents through the high-level education programme
Following the presentation of the final projects, the first cohort of the ECA Academy Management Programme celebrated their graduation. This academic programme, offered in collaboration with Johan Cruyff Institute, was attended by 27 participants representing 25 member clubs of the association. The goal of this executive education programme was to inspire European club academy managers to realice their full potential.
With a tailored and flexible approach, the programme combined online sessions with face-to-face modules at some of Europe’s top football clubs, including AFC Ajax, Manchester City FC, and Club Brugge KV. Participants were joined by Edwin van der Sar, former chairman of the ECA Youth Working Group, who shared key insights and offered words of inspiration to all attendees. Also present was Matt Wade, former Feyenoord Head of Sporting Strategy, representing current ECA Youth Working Group leader and Feyenoord CEO, Dennis te Kloese.
George Ivanishvili, FC Dinamo Tbilisi Academy Director and graduate of the programme, highlighted the opportunity to train in new areas: “Even though many of the participants have extensive experience in the football industry, the ECA Academy Management Programme was an extraordinary platform to explore new knowledge in areas where we lack expertise.” George also noted the opportunity to expand his professional network through the programme: “My gratitude extends to Johan Cruyff Institute and ECA for helping me deal with situations outside my comfort zone, but mainly for the network I built and the new friends I made. Thanks to our feedback and the tireless efforts of the organisers, I believe the next edition of this programme will be an even greater success!”
The final module of the programme was held at Club Brugge KV and was divided into two parts. First, the strategic importance of community management in sport was discussed, and participants presented their final projects. This was followed by the graduation ceremony. Edgar Romero, Head of Corporate Relations, and Lukas Dorda, Director of Online Programs, represented Johan Cruyff Institute. Edgar Romero reflected on the programme’s importance for the participants: “The ECA Academy Management Programme has been an extraordinary, enriching, and practical experience. “It has been inspiring to see participants tap into their full potential and collaborate on real projects that have a direct impact on their respective academies, fostering an atmosphere of shared knowledge, mutual support, and collective advancement. At Johan Cruyff Institute, we are proud to have supported ECA to deliver this successful first edition, driven by a strong team and a shared vision to continuously develop top professionals in the industry.”
Sara Williams, ECA Knowledge and Education Manager, oversaw the progress of the participants throughout their learning journey. Sara highlighted the efforts of the executives who participated in the training: “I am very proud of the hard work and dedication shown by the participants to reach this day. Over the course of nine months, they attended three face-to-face modules, participated in several online sessions, including peer and individual executive coaching sessions, and completed various assignments and activities. All of these elements contributed to the growth of their knowledge, experience, and competencies in key areas, both on and off the field.”
