LIVING THE FEYENOORD EXPERIENCE: RISE SC IN ROTTERDAM

A key part of the program was the training sessions led by Feyenoord coaches Rafi Delfgaauw and Rexhep Memini, who are both active within the club’s youth academy. The players trained in the same way as Feyenoord youth teams, giving them a realistic insight into the club’s development approach and training standards.

Tarik Guendouzi, Head Coach of RISE SC, reflected on the Team Trip: ‘’We had a wonderful experience at Feyenoord. From all the preparation we had all year to the moment we were greeted at the airport. The hotel we stayed in was of top quality, and the transportation around the city of Rotterdam to our sessions, games, and tour was first class. What stood out most to us was the helpfulness of the staff and the quality of the Feyenoord coaching staff who led the sessions and games throughout the week. Everyone I interacted with was courteous, attentive, and genuinely eager to assist. Everything we needed was handled both on and off the pitch. The football side was amazing for our players and parents. I have done a few trips in my career, and I highly recommend this experience to any team considering it. You will be amazed by how good it is.‘’

In addition to training, RISE SC also played friendly matches against BVV Barendrecht and V.V. Spirit. These games gave the team the opportunity to gain international match experience and test themselves against Dutch opposition.

The Trip ended with a visit to De Kuip, where the group attended the match between Feyenoord and Excelsior. Experiencing the atmosphere in the stadium was a highlight for many of the players and gave them a good impression of professional football in the Netherlands.

Off the pitch, there was also plenty of time to explore Rotterdam. The players joined a guided walking tour through the city and visited Adventure City Rotterdam, where they challenged themselves by climbing and ziplining. The group also took part in a stadium tour and visited the official Feyenoord Fanshop.

The RISE SC Team Trip reflects what Feyenoord aims to achieve: creating an environment where players can develop, experience a new culture, and grow both on and off the pitch, while also having fun along the way. Feyenoord thanks RISE SC for their trust and looks forward to welcoming them again in the future.