FOOTBALL
Consistent daily trainings and weekly games
Live the life-style of a professional player—using the same methods and resources
YWC FUTURE
A football program run and design by YWC
Each athlete will be trained in group and individual settings to work on specific areas based on their individual needs
GO THERE
Join an Italian Club
Training and Games
Each athlete will join an Italian team, training and playing matches on a weekly basis
GO THEREYWC FUTURE
Train like a Pro
To maximize player development, each athlete will be trained in specific areas based on their individual needs. These sessions are held in the mornings, usually three times per week, either individually or in small groups.
Athletic Program
Focus Areas
ITALIAN EXPERIENCE
Join an Italian club
Players will join an Italian club and become fully immersed in the local football environment. On average, they will train three times per week with the team and play one official match per week in a FIFA-recognized Italian league competition. This provides consistent, high-level match experience and the opportunity to develop within a competitive European football structure
ELITE SOCCER PROFESSIONALS
THE PROGRAM DIRECTORS
Our staff is dedicated to shaping athletes into their best selves—on and off the field. With decades of experience in College and professional Soccer.
Managing Director
Nicolò Baudo
Raised in UC Sampdoria’s youth teams and then moved to the USA as a Division 1 student-athlete. His pivotal role in recruiting over 200+ individuals who have successfully transitioned into college athletes stands as a testament to his commitment. Holding both a UEFA B Coaching license and an MBA from the City School of New York, Baruch College.
Placement Director
Mitch McKay
Mitch joins YWC after coaching and playing in numerous American collegiate leagues. In his latest experience with UCA in the NCAA D1, he held the roles of Associate Head Coach and recruiting coordinator, obtaining recognition as the best coaching staff in the Missouri Valley Conference. His role has been instrumental for the success of YWC creating meaningful connections with the best College Soccer Program in the whole country
Technical Director
Angelo Orlando
Angelo Orlando is among the elite few who have played professional soccer, and even fewer can claim to have represented a club as legendary as Inter Milan. In 1994, he made history by helping his team, alongside Berti, Bianchi, and Bergkamp, secure the UEFA Cup against Austria Salzburg. Over his career, he played more than 120 matches for Inter before retiring in 1998, cementing his place in soccer history.
SUCCESS STORIES
Yannick Bright's Rise: From YWC to the World Stage
Yannick Bright with YWC
Yannick Bright has been developed by the YWC staff in the 2019-20 Year prior to land at UNH
Yannick Bright with UNH
Yannick was a 2 times ALL American with UNH
Yannick With Inter Miami
He was drafted in the first round of the 2024 MLS Draft by Inter Miami
FACILITIES
YWC Soccer Complex
A soccer-specific complex with state-of-the-art facilities
FAQ
USEFUL FOOTBALL RELATED INFORMATION
This section provides essential football related information for student-athletes that wish to learn more about the YWC gap year football program
For which Italian club and league will I be playing?
In the first few weeks of the program, each player will participate in tryouts with different local clubs. Based on the player’s preferences and the evaluation from the clubs, each player will be placed accordingly, ensuring a good fit between the player and the team.
Is club placement guaranteed 100%?
Yes, club placement is guaranteed. We have partnerships with every football club in Genoa, across all levels, ensuring each player is placed with a suitable team.
What levels and leagues are available for players?
Players have the opportunity to join U-19 teams, ranging from the top U-19 league, Serie A-19, which is the highest youth level, to local U-19 leagues. Additionally, players can be placed directly with senior teams, including semi-professional Serie D, Eccellenza (5th division), or Promozione (6th division) teams
How do the club team trainings complement the YWC training sessions?
The club team trainings and YWC sessions are complementary. YWC focuses on individual player development, working on specific areas for improvement through small group sessions or individual lessons. On the other hand, club team trainings emphasize team dynamics, strategies, and collective gameplay, ensuring a well-rounded football experience.
Who are the coaches, and what is their background?
The YWC coaches are highly qualified professionals with extensive experience in football coaching at various levels. They include former professional players, certified coaches, and experts who have worked with top clubs in Italy and internationally. Their background ensures that each player receives top-tier training and guidance to enhance their skills and development
Will players participate in league matches with their respective club teams?
Yes, players will be fully integrated into their respective club teams and will participate in league matches as official members of the squad.
What type of training is offered with YWC?
YWC offers specialized football training with a focus on key areas for player development. The focus areas include:
Football-specific strength
Speed & agility
Decision making on and off the ball
Technical skills
Injury prevention
What is the football training schedule like?
On average, players train 3 times a week with YWC and 3 times a week with their club team. Some days will involve double sessions. With YWC, training typically takes place in the mornings, while club training is scheduled in the afternoons. This structure ensures that players get the most out of both individual development with YWC and team-oriented sessions with their club.
Are the players filmed during training and matches?
Yes, all players are filmed during training sessions with YWC as well as during their matches with the club team. Additionally, the league matches will be live-streamed, allowing friends, family, and others to watch the games in real-time. This also provides players with an opportunity to review their performances later
YWC PROGRAM
LEARN ABOUT THE PROGRAM
