International Football Academy 

European Football Experience – Italy 2026
Expression of Interest | U10–U13 Players
IOB Academy invites families of current U10, U11, U12 and U13 players to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for an exclusive European Football Experience in Italy – 2026.
This program is a high-level developmental immersion, designed to expose selected players to the culture, methodology, and standards of Italian 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 Italian 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 Italian 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

• Italian 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 Italian 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:

• Italian customs and lifestyle

• Introductory Italian 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

• Current IOB Academy U10–U13 players

• 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

​