“Klaipeda University consistently integrates world-class football practice into its studies. P. M. Vicente will demonstrate effective methodologies that help prepare coaches capable of competing at the international level and raising the overall quality of Lithuania’s football ecosystem,” says KU Rector Prof. Dr. Artūras Razbadauskas.
This visit is part of the cooperation agreement signed in 2023 between KU and FC Barcelona. Students specializing in football under the Leisure Sports study program already receive theoretical courses and licensed training materials developed in line with FC Barcelona’s coaching philosophy. This time, the program is enhanced with real-life training sessions led by an expert from the club.
“The agreement with FC Barcelona is a major achievement. Until now, students have completed theoretical courses and assignments, but this is the first time we will work directly with a professional from the club. The added value is clear – students and coaches will witness how team strategies are created and training sessions are organized according to the highest standards,” emphasizes Prof. Dr. Asta Šarkauskienė, Head of the Department of Sports at KU’s Faculty of Health Sciences.
The training sessions will take place at the Klaipėda Football School Stadium and will be open to all football enthusiasts. This is a rare opportunity to observe up close how a professional from one of the world’s top clubs works.
“The training and playing methodology of clubs like FC Barcelona is invaluable. When students and coaches can witness it firsthand and participate in the practice themselves, the knowledge becomes tangible and is absorbed much more effectively,” says Klaipėda Football School Director Audrius Žuta.
The importance of this visit is also highlighted by Valdas Urbonas, President of the Football Coaches Training Association. According to him, the practical experience of such a specialist is highly valuable for the training of Lithuanian coaches.
“We are delighted with this KU and FC Barcelona partnership – it is an opportunity to learn from the best. Today, students gain knowledge from internationally recognized professionals, and later they will apply it in their own coaching – the value is undeniable,” says Urbonas.
P. M. Vicente’s visit to KU and the cycle of practical sessions are organized within the framework of the EU-CONEXUS (European University for Smart Urban Coastal Sustainability) mobility initiative Invitation of External Experts. As a member of this alliance, KU regularly invites international experts to share their experience with students and the regional community – thereby strengthening internationalization, linking studies with practice, and creating added value for the city of Klaipėda and the coastal region.
Schedule of training sessions:
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September 15: 11:00–12:00 and 17:00–18:00
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September 16: 10:00–11:00 and 16:00–17:00
Venue: Klaipėda Football School Stadium, Paryžiaus Komunos St. 16A, Klaipėda.
