Football was first played in Portugal in 1875. The game has become very popular over the years. Thus, many colleges in Portugal encourage students to pursue the sport on a professional level.
These colleges are also well-known for brilliant academic programs. Still, sports are available for students. Notable footballers such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Luís Figo hail from Portugal.
Colleges need students to strike a balance between classwork and extra-curricular activities. As a result, it’s advisable to get the writing service Essay Hub to help you out when you have matches or training sessions. Professional writing services offer timely and top-notch services for all essay topics.
So, you’re done with high school and want to apply to colleges in Portugal. Where do you begin, and how do you know the best soccer-friendly institutions? Here is a list of colleges you should consider checking out.
University of Porto
The University of Porto’s history begins in 1911. It is renowned for scientific research and the high level of education they provide. The university is also popular for winning medals in competitions such as the National University Championships.
The University of Porto is committed to promoting sports in the academic community. As a result, it has a synthetic turf pitch for 7-a-side football. Students who choose to play soccer here benefit by earning themselves a student-athlete status.
Moreover, the institution has a sports centre acting as an amateur sports club for university students. The club promotes and organizes university sports, allowing students to get enough football practice.
Apart from that, the Faculty of Sports offers advanced training in sports-related issues. If you want to be a coach or pursue soccer professionally, this program would be perfect for you.
Polytechnic of Leiria
This institute understands that school is not all about books. Polytechnic of Leiria grows athletic talents by encouraging its learners to get to the field and stay fit, healthy, and active. 7-a-side football is among the many sports offered here.
Sports are divided into leisure and performance, meaning students have the chance to pursue a career in soccer by taking part in notable championships.
If you want to join Polytechnic of Leiria, get ready to play at national higher education championships organized by FADU, the Academic Federation of University Sports.
The institution’s soccer achievements include:
- Poland, European Universities Championship – 2008/2009
- Italy, European Universities Championship – 2006/2007
Polytechnic of Leiria is driven by core values such as inclusion, cooperation, entrepreneurial thinking, innovation, and responsibility. All these are adapted to its sports program, thus its success.
University of Lisbon
When talking about football-friendly colleges, it’s easy to concentrate on the players and forget the coaches. However, the University of Lisbon has the perfect program for training professional or aspiring coaches.
Some prominent football coaches who have gone through the Faculty of Human Kinetics (FCH) include:
- José Mourinho
- Rui Vitória
- Carlos Queiroz
The FCH encourages exchange between amateur and professional players and coaches. This encourages growth on a practical level, making it easier for learners to perfect their skills and become professional footballers.
International Football Academy de Portugal (IFAPT)
Join the International Football Academy de Portugal if you want to study and get the full professional football training experience. IFAPT provides elite training programs for football players. On the other hand, the institution also has an optional academic program.
Student-athletes have the perfect opportunity to train with experienced Portuguese coaches. Also, they take part in competitions while studying.
Enrolling in such a program might require you to resort to paperwriter for help with academics. That way, you’ll always be on time for training sessions and championship games. Also, your grades won’t suffer while you focus on soccer.
University of Évora
Some students want to play football on a competitive level, while others prefer sports for leisure or to relieve stress after a long day of schoolwork.
This uni has both types of students covered. Those who prefer competitive soccer play games offered by the Portuguese University Sports Academic Federation. Before participating in any game, you must get your academics in order. That’s one of the regulations by the institution.
On top of that, student-athletes have to pass a physical exam to establish if they are fit to participate in games. Once you pass the physical exam, the institution provides coverage under Article 75 of the Academic Regulations of the University of Évora.
University of the Azores
The University of Azores offers students an opportunity to partake in sporting activities organized by the students’ associations. Besides, the university has amazing sports facilities in the following areas:
- Ponta Delgada
- Angra do Heroísmo
So, if you’re a student seeking to perfect your football skills, the University of the Azores is a good option. Unfortunately, college life can become hectic. If you don’t balance classwork and physical activity, it’s very easy to get overwhelmed.
Conclusion
Football is a top sport in Portugal. As a result, it is not uncommon to find many colleges offering the sport alongside academics. Becoming a well-rounded student is essential for your well-being. Besides, sports, especially football, allow you to become part of a team.
Moreover, the road to becoming a professional soccer player starts in college. Thus, the colleges mentioned above are great institutions to start your career!
