This week, some of the top young players from across the BVB International Academy network will travel to Germany as part of the School of Excellence (SOE) Germany Trip, taking place March 12–20.
The group features elite players from the 2011/2010 Boys and 2011–2007 Girls age groups, selected from five BVB International Academy affiliates across the network. These players represent the highest level of the BVBIA development pathway, having progressed through the School of Excellence identification process at the local, regional, and national levels.
The SOE Germany trip is designed to immerse players in the culture and standards of Borussia Dortmund while providing meaningful international competition and exposure to the professional academy environment.
Competing Against Borussia Dortmund’s Academy
During their time in Germany, players will participate in training sessions and competitive matches against top-level opposition.
The girls’ teams will compete against Borussia Dortmund’s Youth Academy and Women’s Youth Academy / Second Team, offering a rare opportunity to test themselves against players developing within the professional system.
The boys’ teams will also take part in a high-level match and training sessions designed to challenge them within the demanding environment that defines German football development.
A Key Stage in the School of Excellence Pathway
The School of Excellence program represents the highest performance pathway within BVB International Academy. Players are identified through a series of scouting and development events across the network before earning the opportunity to participate in international experiences such as the Germany trip.
Trips like these allow players to experience firsthand the expectations and standards associated with Borussia Dortmund while representing their local academies on an international stage.
Representing the Network
This year’s SOE squad brings together players from five BVB International Academy affiliates, reflecting the strength of development across the growing North American network. Each player selected represents not only their club but the collective progress of the entire BVBIA community.
As these players travel to Germany, they carry with them the values that define BVB International Academy, developing players the BVB Way: Ambitious. Powerful. Responsible. Real.
In the coming weeks, the School of Excellence pathway will continue with another milestone event: the first-ever Junior School of Excellence Germany trip, which will bring the next generation of BVBIA players to Dortmund.
