January 24 – Transitioning from being a professional footballer to a working life outside of playing the game is one of the biggest challenges a player undertakes.
For players who want to transition from wearing a team kit to wearing a suit but to stay within the game, learning the new skills required and acquiring an understanding of a multi-disciplinary business is equally difficult.
UEFA’s Academy is providing a pathway for players who are taking that journey from pitch to back-office decision making via its Executive Master for International Players (MIP) programme.
Finland’s Nora Heroum, who plays her club football at Sampdoria and recently helped her nation, Finland, qualify for Women’s EURO 2025, has taken the unusual step of studying for the Masters while still playing professionally.
“I want to stay involved in football after my playing career, contributing to the growth of the women’s and girls’ game. During my internship with the Finnish Federation, Hannu Tihinen (UEFA MIP first edition graduate) encouraged me to apply. I wasn’t sure if I could manage it while still playing but seeing Veronica Boquete (UEFA MIP 4) do it inspired me,” said Heroum.
To be able to study at the UEFA Academy, Heroum has had the support of her club. “Without their cooperation, I wouldn’t have been able to pursue this opportunity while I still play professionally,” she told UEFA.com.
The 20-month UEFA MIP is predominantly taught online but with eight week-long sessions held in major European cities, with the last two sessions take place outside Europe in the US and South America.
The programme is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of football management, with each session examining a different aspect of the administration and governance of a football organisation. Players not already working within a sports body are requested to complete a three-month work placement role.
“Every session has been eye-opening,” said Heroum. “I thought I knew a lot before starting the UEFA MIP, but I’ve realised how much there is to learn. The speakers and topics have been incredibly insightful and motivating.”
UEFA’s Academy is currently recruiting for the sixth edition of its MIP that will start this October.
Heroum is part of a new cohort of football decision makers who were driven to play the game competitively and are committed to make a contribution to the game after they have hung up their professional boots.
“I’m passionate about driving the growth of women’s football and creating opportunities for girls in the sport. There’s so much potential for the women’s game, and I believe my experience, passion, and determination will help me contribute meaningfully,” said Heroum.
“I’m still exploring specific roles, which is why the UEFA MIP is perfect – it’s giving me a broad understanding of the opportunities off the pitch and helping me discover what suits me best and where I can make the biggest impact.”
UEFA has recognised the importance of keeping more women in the game as administrators, but it is still a challenge.
“Diversity leads to better decision-making, and women’s perspectives are essential to creating a more inclusive and holistic football environment. Women bring invaluable insights, especially when it comes to developing the women’s game,” said Heroum. “Without women in leadership, we’re missing a crucial piece of the puzzle. Football should represent everyone, and having women in administrative roles ensures that the sport grows in a balanced and equitable way.”
Heroum has been a trailblazer for her country on the pitch – Euro 2025 in Switzerland will be her third – and will similarly be one off it.
“We, women, are an inspiration for the next generation on the pitch but also off the pitch. Opportunities like the UEFA MIP inspire the next generation off the pitch. By creating pathways for women in sports management, UEFA is breaking down stereotypes and showing that football leadership is for everyone,” she said.
But first there is the small matter of Iceland on July 2, Finland’s opening Euro 2025 match in the Stockhorn Arena.
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