Barcelona, ES – (Apr 25, 2025) – Johan Cruyff Institute and League1 Canada have renewed their commitment to education and the professionalization of the sports ecosystem by announcing the second edition of their joint scholarship program, aimed at players, coaches, and technical and administrative staff of clubs in Ontario and British Columbia.
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The program, which will open its call for applications on April 25, 2025, will once again offer full and partial scholarships to study academic programs at Johan Cruyff Institute during the 2025-2026 academic year, including on-campus and online master’s degrees, specialized diplomas, and short courses focused on sport and professional football management. The initiative builds on the success of its first edition, held during the 2024-2025 academic year, in which several people from the League1 Canada environment accessed high-level training.
For the 2025-2026 academic year, the program is significantly expanding, offering over 200 scholarships for master’s studies, diplomas, short courses, and introductory training programs in sport management, marketing, sponsorship, football, and leadership.
Cristina Pales, Marketing Director of Johan Cruyff Institute, said: “This is a strong commitment to bringing high-quality education closer to those transforming sport from the grassroots level.”
Next Monday, May 5 at 11am ET / 8am PT, an information session will be held where professionals from Johan Cruyff Institute and League1 Canada will explain this strategic collaboration, focused on education and talent development at the Pro-Am level of football. During the session, the available training opportunities for players, coaches, and administrative staff will be outlined, as well as the specific benefits this partnership offers to League1 Canada participants. There will also be time to answer questions and share success stories related to the program.
A partnership based on shared values
Johan Cruyff Institute brings to this alliance over 25 years of experience in educating sports professionals, with academic programs specifically designed for athletes and individuals developing their careers in the sports sector. League1 Canada, in turn, is a key platform in the Canadian football ecosystem, promoting emerging talent and offering competition and growth opportunities to hundreds of players each season.
Dino Rossi, President of League1 Canada, said: “We know athletic careers are short and preparing for the future is essential. That’s why we’re proud to offer this program alongside Johan Cruyff Institute – not only to support education, but to open doors to new career pathways.”
Scholarship Program Details
The program includes financial aid ranging from 10% to 100% of tuition fees for various academic programs. Key opportunities include:
● Master in Football Business in partnership with FC Barcelona (on-campus, Barcelona):
– 1 full scholarship covering 100% of tuition (€20,910)
– 1 scholarship covering 50% of tuition
● Online master’s programs in Football Business and Sport Business:
– Scholarships covering 50% of tuition (€4,355 value)
● Online postgraduate and specialized diplomas:
– Scholarships covering 50% of tuition (valued between €1,605 and €2,365)
● Online short courses (3 and 6 ECTS) and Essentials in Football Business:
– Scholarships covering 10% and 50% of tuition respectively
Recipients of full scholarships for master’s and diploma programs will only need to pay a €150 registration fee.
Eligibility and Selection Process
The call is open to individuals aged 18 and older who are players, coaches, or staff members of clubs affiliated with League1 Canada, and who are not receiving any other public or private financial aid for the same program. Applicants must complete an application form and submit their CV and a motivation letter.
The selection process will be conducted jointly by Johan Cruyff Institute and League1 Canada, with special consideration given to professional background, demonstrated interest in education, and future potential. The final list of selected candidates will be confirmed and communicated by Johan Cruyff Institute.
Key Dates
● Applications open: April 25, 2025
● Application deadline: June 22, 2025 at 11:59 PM EST
● Deadline to submit additional documentation: July 21, 2025 at 11:59 PM (Spain time)
A Commitment to the Future of Sport
With this second edition of the scholarship program, Johan Cruyff Institute and League1 Canada reinforce their commitment to the comprehensive development of sports talent—beyond the pitch. Training in management, leadership, sports marketing, and football business becomes a key tool in preparing the next generation of sports leaders.
Albert Romans, General Manager of Johan Cruyff Institute, said: “Johan always believed in the importance of preparing athletes for life after competition. This partnership reflects that vision, and it’s a source of pride to see it grow edition after edition.”