Heidelberg College and the Royal Racing Football Club Montagneé in Liege, Belgium, have formed a partnership – the Heidelberg-RRFCM Academic & Soccer Academy – that offers students the opportunity to develop professional-level soccer skills in a European setting while working toward a bachelor’s degree in business and/or sport management from Heidelberg.

RRFCM is a professional soccer club that occupies a five-acre sports complex outside Liege. The facility includes a stadium, clubhouse, locker rooms and several practice fields. Heidelberg’s academic facility, including classrooms, library, computer lab, student lounge, dining area and administrative offices, is located on site.

The first year of the program is set, with students taking a mix of business administration and general education and elective courses, according to Dr. Dave Weininger. Pending final approval, the college will expand the initial year into a four-year program leading to a bachelor’s degree.

Students who enroll at the academy will be Heidelberg students. All of the courses, to be taught in English, will be identical to those offered on the main campus, and will be transferable to other U.S. colleges and universities. The academic calendar will follow as closely as possible that on the Tiffin campus.

Students will arrive at the facility in mid-July for pre-season training and orientation. Soccer season will begin in August and last until May. Games will be played once a week.

In addition to their academic schedules, students will participate in the RRFCM Soccer Academy, which is designed to bring highly talented student-athletes from the U.S. and around the world to their optimal playing potential in a professional environment that mirrors a top-class European coaching academy.

If you would like to know more about the RRFCM Academic & Soccer Academy, visit Heidelberg's webpage or the Royal Racing Football Club Montegnee website for more details.