Free online event
Join us to learn how you can train, compete, and earn a UK degree with IDA & the University of Hertfordshire.
April 23, 2026A confirmation email with Zoom details will be sent after registration.
AF Global Academy with the University of Hertfordshire opens in 2026, offering a powerful pathway that combines elite football development with career-focused higher education.
Located just 20 minutes from Central London, the campus places student-athletes in one of the world’s most exciting global cities.
Designed for players pursuing long-term football development while earning a respected UK university degree.
What the Program Includes
• Earn a globally recognised undergraduate degree
• Train 4–5 days per week in a professional academy environment
• Compete in BUCS university leagues
• Access performance analysis and match support
• Develop within a structured academy setting
Popular Degree Areas
• Sports Science
• Business & Management
• Coaching & Performance
• Psychology
• Media & Communications
• And more
This dual-career pathway allows players to compete at a high level while securing their professional future.
International Student Funding Available - The University of Hertfordshire accepts applicants using U.S. Federal Loans and also welcomes students from Canada and many other countries.
Student-athletes in the IDA UK pathway can pursue a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees while continuing their football development.
These flexible programs allow players to balance elite training with career-focused academics, ensuring long-term opportunities both on and off the pitch.
Each course includes the FA Introduction to Coaching Football qualification, helping players develop a deeper understanding of the game while building leadership, communication skills, and a strong CV.
Players may also progress toward additional qualifications, including the UEFA C Licence.
IDA UK also supports student-athletes with placement year opportunities, career guidance, and long-term professional development.
US Federal Loans Available
The University of Hertfordshire accepts applicants using US Federal Loans.
The mission of the international development academy is to become the global leader in the development and placement of players aspiring to reach their full potential at the professional or college level.
IDA staff and players will act with intelligence, respect, and compassion.
IDA staff and players will perform with their best effort and attitude, no matter how difficult the challenge.
IDA staff and players will aim high in order to reach their goals.
Kaden Foreman joined IDA for a GAP year with the goal to play college soccer. From helping with the recruiting process to fine tuning his skills - Kaden was able to utilize IDA to take the next step in his playing career.
The World’s Most Competitive Football Culture
England offers:
A professional pyramid system
Proximity to Premier League and EFL clubs
A culture that lives and breathes football
Competitive match environments year-round
Daily immersion accelerates development.
UK university degrees are internationally respected.
Unlike many traditional systems:
Most undergraduate degrees are completed in 3 years
Academic schedules are structured to support student-athletes
Students graduate prepared for careers in sport, business, and beyond
Only a small percentage of players turn professional.
This model ensures you graduate with real options.
Many American families are choosing the UK pathway because:
Football operates year-round (not compressed into one season)
No NCAA amateurism restrictions
Flexibility to train with clubs while studying
Often lower total cost due to 3-year degrees
Exposure to professional environments
This is a strategic alternative to the traditional U.S. college route.
DA UK players benefit from:
UEFA-licensed coaching
Tactical periodisation training model
Strength & conditioning programming
Video analysis & performance tracking
Competitive match calendar
Pro & semi-pro exposure opportunities
This mirrors a professional academy structure — not recreational university sport.
Train. Compete. Elevate Your Game.
At IDA UK, gap year players experience a complete football development program built to push them toward the standards of first-team and semi-professional football. Every session is led by UEFA-licensed coaches and tailored to your position, playing style, and long-term goals. You’ll master technical precision, tactical awareness, and physical performance through daily training, competitive fixtures, and professional mentoring.
The curriculum mirrors the rhythm of the professional game — helping you grow as a player, refine your football IQ, and prepare for opportunities within the English football pyramid, college programs, or the next step in your career.
TRAINING HRS./WK
Tactical & Technical Sessions
Physical Development Plans
Focused Individual Development Plans
Games
The Academy will play 100+ games across 3 Teams competing in 5 leagues & 5 Cup Tournaments; through our U19s, U21s & U23s Teams, with playing pathway into Men’s 1st Teams in the English pyramid. Every student athlete has the opportunity & flexibility to play across any of the Teams as the Academy is in full control of the player development.
Athletics
Attend the Royal Cup in August & professional showcase fixtures during the season.
"Their commitment to pushing us, to getting us to play at our highest level is because they know what it takes to get a scholarship and reach that goal. They were really involved in the whole process, both on and off the field. I couldn’t have done it without them.”
THE MISSION OF THE INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT ACADEMY IS TO BECOME THE GLOBAL LEADER IN THE DEVELOPMENT AND PLACEMENT OF PLAYERS ASPIRING TO REACH THEIR FULL POTENTIAL AT THE PROFESSIONAL OR COLLEGE LEVEL.
“Designed by athletes and educators, we understand your schedule, your priorities, your unique goals, and your struggles facing academics. We offer solutions, not more road-blocks. We have created a community, a flexible school schedule, and a support system unlike any other.”
- Rick Angelicola, Director of Education
6:00-8:00
8:00-9:00
9:30-10:00
10:00-10:30
10:30-12:30
12:00-13:00
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13:30-17:30
13:30-17:30
17:30-18:00
18:00-20:00
20:00-21:00
As a gap year student, Mac's goal was to play Division I college soccer, and wanted to take the extra year to ensure he was putting his best foot forward and getting into a college where he could fulfill that dream.
Still have questions? Want to learn more? Fill out the form below to connect with an IDA representative. We look forward to hearing from you!
