DFL and DFB publish brochure for parents with children at Youth Academies

25 January 2024 – In cooperation with the German Football Association (DFB), the DFL Deutsche Fußball Liga has published an informative brochure for parents whose children attend a Youth Academy. Developed in partnership with the German Sport University Cologne and philippka Sportverlag (philippka publishing house), “Our Child in the Youth Academy” informs parents about opportunities, challenges and expectations that their children will face. The publication is also intended to help Youth Academies communicate effectively with players and their families, and ensure a mutual understanding of the expectations from both sides.

Youth development in football has become increasingly professionalized over the past two decades. The everyday life of youth players at an academy differs in many ways from that of their peers. The brochure is primarily intended to inform parents of children at Youth Academies, but also other interested parties, about the academy system and environment and talent development.

In order to give as many people as possible access to this information, the publication is available not only in German, but also in English and Turkish. The content ranges depending on the different age groups within the academy and their respective training objectives, in order to find a healthy balance between school and competitive sport. Other topics include the accommodation of players at residential schools or with host families. Testimonials from former players and their parents provide practical insights.

The German Sport University Cologne has analysed the latest scientific findings on topics such as the role of parents, the wishes and expectations of children, and communication between children and coaches. Various reference groups from the academies were involved in the creation of the brochure, including educational and sports psychology staff.