Sporting Director Programme (SDP)
The SDP is the ultimate programme for any sporting director looking to enhance their skills to meet today’s global football challenges.
Programme overview
The SDP is designed to equip sporting directors with the practical skills, strategic insights, and leadership qualities necessary to excel in modern football management.
Combining three immersive face-to-face seminars at UEFA headquarters and top European football clubs and two online masterclasses, this programme covers every aspect of running a successful football operation, from squad planning to recruitment and high-stakes decision-making. The programme invites participants not only to learn about and discuss the latest trends, but also to anticipate future challenges.
Participants will engage in both group and individual assignments and receive tailored feedback to ensure growth and long-term development in their roles.
The structure and content of the programme ensures participants will enhance their understanding of club management, have access to a range of different resources and become part of an expanding network of international graduates – all of which will contribute to their personal and professional development.
Quick view
Faq
- Who Active and former sporting directors, individuals holding a senior position in a sports department and former international players
- When Every second year. Next intake in March 2025.
- How long 3 months
- Where 3 face-to-face seminars at UEFA and at European clubs. 2 online masterclasses
- Price €7900
- Numbers of participants 30
- Certification Certificate of completion
- Language English
- Inclusivity, Diversity and Parent support We welcome all participants from diverse backgrounds and cultures, recognising the unique value that diversity brings to our community. If you have any uncertainties about meeting specific programme criteria, we encourage you to reach out to us. in addition, the UEFA Academy is aware of the challenges parents of young children can be facing when perusing continuous education. Should you believe it could be an obstacle to your education journey, contact us to learn more about the support the UEFA Academy can offer in that regard.
Important dates
- 08 Jan 2025 Applications close for the next edition
- 17 Mar 2025 Face-to-Face Seminar 1 - Madrid, Spain
- 02 Apr 2025 Online Masterclass 1
- 22 Apr 2025 Face-to-Face Seminar 2 - Düsseldorf, Germany
- 05 May 2025 Online Masterclass 2
- 13 May 2025 Face-to-Face Seminar 3 - UEFA Headquarters, Nyon
Programme Outcomes
- Gain a deep understanding of effective club management practices and strategic approaches to ensure club success
- Stay ahead with cutting-edge knowledge in talent identification, recruitment processes, and player development methodologies
- Acquire the skills to navigate the financial complexity of football, ensuring sustainable financial practices
- Develop effective communication and negotiation skills
- Strengthen your leadership for sustainable development and responsible management of clubs though various financial tools
- Access a unique network of sporting directors
Roadmap
To lead a football club effectively, Sporting Directors must master football governance and develop robust sporting strategies that ensure long term success. Sporting Directors are responsible for shaping the club’s football philosophy, balancing short-term performance with long-term planning. This involve aligning recruitment, player development, and first-team goals with the broader vision of the club.
This seminar will cover:
- Governance in modern football: understanding the regulations, financial models and ethical responsibilities that govern the modern game.
- Developing sporting strategies: building a cohesive football philosophy, balancing immediate success with sustainable growth through structured planning.
Testimonials from leading Sporting Directors and football executives
Case studies
For Sporting Directors, understanding the legal framework of football and possessing solid business skills are essential to managing the modern game effectively. The legal side of football involves navigating complex contracts, transfers, and negotiations while ensuring compliance with national and international regulations, such as UEFA Financial Sustainability and player contract laws.
On the business side, Sporting Directors must balance the financial health of the club with its sporting ambitions. This involves creating sustainable budgets, maximizing revenues streams, managing player assets, and making smart financial decision that contribute to the club’s long-term growth.
This seminar will cover:
- Legal frameworks in football: navigating contracts, transfers, and regulatory compliance to ensure legal soundness in all club operations.
- Business skill for Sporting Directors: developing financial strategies, managing budgets, and making decisions that align sporting success with financial sustainability.
Testimonials from Top Sporting Directors who work in other sports
Football management workshop
The evolution of football has transformed the game at every level, from the style of play to the integration of new technologies. Sporting Directors must stay ahead of these changes, understanding how football tactics and innovations impact their clubs.
Advances in technologies – such as data analytics, video analysis, and performance tracking tools – have revolutionized scouting, player development, and in-game decision-making. BY staying ahead of these trends, Sporting Directors can ensure their clubs remain competitive and relevant in an ever-changing football landscape.
This final session will cover:
- Football evolution and new technologies: how technological evolutions have reshaped football operations, from scouting to training, and how to use these tools to drive success.
- Strategic implementation of tools: applying new methods to improve club performance and future-proof the team’s approach.
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