The first Multiday Masterclass has hit the ground running

Each day followed a central theme, with leading specialists from Feyenoord 1, the Feyenoord Academy, and Feyenoord Women’s First Team sharing their knowledge. Participants were encouraged not only to absorb knowledge but also to critically reflect on the concepts presented and adapt them to their own environments.

Feyenoord’s Academy Director Zeb Jacobs opened the event. ‘Through the Multiday Masterclass, we welcomed coaches from various countries and continents. By engaging in intensive dialogue, sharing experiences, and exchanging perspectives, we collectively gained valuable insights’, Jacobs starts. ‘This international gathering offered us the opportunity not only to share, but also to reflect on ourselves and our program, thereby contributing to the continued development of our training.’After his enthusiastic words, the Multiday Masterclass officially started.

The event was found to be a positive experience for the participants. ‘In this MultidayMasterclass, I learned about Feyenoord's organization, academy player development, and connection with top teams. I also learned a lot from the club that has trained many promising players this time. Japan is also now transferring young players to overseas clubs, so I want to aim to develop players who can play an active role in the world one day from the Urawa Reds’, said Yu Okamura, coach at Feyenoord’s partner club Urawa Red Diamonds.

‘It was powerful to witness passionate football people from different countries come together, all bringing their own role and perspective’, said Zurab Amirian, Head of Coaching & Methodology at the Feyenoord Academy. ‘The exchange of experiences, learning and inspiration made this Multiday Masterclass truly unique.’

Program Highlights

Day 1 – Strategy and Foundations. Participants attended workshops on Strategy, One Football Department and From Theory into Practice. In between the participants had a guided stadium tour, offering unique insights into Feyenoord’s history and culture.

Day 2 – Football Vision and Youth Development. The focus shifted to the pitch, with an in-depth session on Football Vision 2.0 led by Feyenoord Academy Coaches. Attendees observed live training sessions of the U17, U19 and U21 teams, and explored topics including Coach Development, Training Periodization, and the physical and mental growth of the players.

Day 3 – Individual Development and Women’s Football. The final day centered on Individual Development Plans of youth players and the growth of the Feyenoord Women’s Program. All of this culminated in the observation of a Feyenoord 1 friendly match, a chance to see theory put into practice.