European Football Experience – Real Madrid   2026 - AUSTRALIAS 1ST , OPEN TO EVERYONE
Expression of Interest | U8–U13 Players
IOB Academy invites families of current U8,U9 U10, U11, U12 and U13 players to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for an exclusive European Football Experience in Real Madrid – 2026.
This program is a high-level developmental immersion, designed to expose selected players to the culture, methodology, and standards of European football. It reflects IOB Academy’s long-term vision of developing technically excellent, intelligent, and resilient players—on and off the pitch.
This is not a commercial tour.
It is a carefully curated football experience focused on education, exposure, and personal growth.
Program Objectives

• Introduce players to European football culture and methodology

• Experience professional training environments

• Compete against THE BEST SPANISH academy and regional youth teams

• Develop personal responsibility, leadership, and adaptability

• Inspire long-term football ambition and professional standards

Program Inclusions
Elite Football Training
Players will participate in structured training sessions delivered by European academy coaches and development staff, with a focus on:

• Technical execution and ball mastery

• Tactical awareness and positional understanding

• Decision-making in small-sided, high-pressure environments

• European football principles, discipline, and mentality

Training sessions will take place at professional club or academy facilities, subject to availability.
Match Play & Football Exposure
Participants will compete in organised friendly fixtures against LA LIGA SPANISH academies or regional youth teams, providing:

• Exposure to European match intensity and tempo

• Tactical and competitive learning experiences

• Benchmarking against international peers

Stadium & Academy Visits
Subject to availability, players may visit:

• Professional football stadiums

• Club training centres and academy environments

• Football museums and performance facilities

These visits provide insight into the European football pathway and professional ecosystem.
Cultural Immersion
The experience extends beyond football, offering players exposure to:

• SPANISH AND REAL MADRID customs and lifestyle

• Introductory SPANISH language experiences

• Historical and cultural landmarks

This immersion deepens players’ understanding of how culture, identity, and tradition shape football philosophy.
Leadership & Personal Development
Aligned with IOB Academy’s holistic development framework, the program emphasises:

• Professional behaviour and accountability

• Team cohesion and leadership habits

• Confidence, resilience, and adaptability

• Guided reflection sessions focused on learning and growth

Welcome & Farewell Dinners

• Welcome Dinner at the commencement of the program

• Farewell Dinner to formally conclude the experience

These events provide structured opportunities for connection, reflection, and celebration.
Exclusions
Families are responsible for independently arranging:

• International flights

• Accommodation

• Daily meals

• Travel insurance

• Supervision outside scheduled football activities

Proposed Timing

• 2026 (exact dates to be confirmed)

• Scheduled in alignment with Australian school holidays and the European football calendar

Eligibility Criteria

• U8-U13

• Demonstrated commitment to football development

• Strong behaviour, attitude, and coachability

• Ability to represent IOB Academy in an international environment

Capacity & Selection Process
Places are strictly limited.
Submission of an Expression of Interest does not guarantee selection. Final selection will be based on:

• Player maturity and readiness

• Attitude and alignment with IOB Academy values

• Overall suitability for the program environment

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