The Long Island Junior Soccer League recently announced a partnership with Ibercup, along with the creation of the Elite Clubs Alliance League. As part of that new partnership, LIJSL Sporting Director John Fitzgerald was invited to attend the IberCup Coach Development Program last week in Portugal.
The IberCup Coach Development Program is a coaching symposium attended by coaches invited from different parts of the world and was a week-long event. The symposium was led by UEFA Pro coach Luis Dias.
During the week’s events, it provided opportunities to observe training sessions at Benfica and Sporting CP, take part in practical learning coaching sessions, and join in on round tables that featured prominent coaches and players from around the world.
“Attending the IberCup Coaching Symposium was top notch,” Fitzgerald said. “Total professionalism in the classroom, on the field, and personal experiences. Being able to see the connection across all levels of Benfica and Sporting CP – U7s to the Pro teams – gave a unique insight and complete understanding of their player development systems and cultures. This was by far one of the best experiences I have had as a coach, especially benefitting from collaboration from such a variety of coaches who attended as well as the presenters.”
The trip also provided an opportunity for Fitzgerald to meet with IberCup CEO and Founder Filipe Rodrigues ahead of the ECAL competition, which sees the winners earn entry into IberCup 2025 in Estoril, Portugal.
“We were invited to join this competition due to the strong status of our league,” Fitzgerald said. “Filipe came to NY and met with us personally, as he understands the value that a partnership between LIJSL and IberCup can bring. This is a selective tournament, attended by teams from around the world, and is a special opportunity for our players.
“Filipe, Luis Dias, and their whole staff are top rate. Their attention to detail and professionalism truly make them stand above so many others. I’m happy to be connected with them for this wonderful event, for their insight into player and coaching development, and look forward to our growing relationship.”
