Tiago López’s One-Week Experience at the Baskonia Alavés Academy
For many young players, taking the first step into a professional football environment starts with curiosity. For Tiago López, a 13-year-old player from Phoenix, Arizona, it started with a one-week stay at the Baskonia Alavés Academy.
What he found was not just training sessions, but a complete introduction to how football is taught, lived, and experienced in Spain.
“Being part of this academy is an absolute dream. Meeting new people and learning from the coaches has been amazing. I feel completely honored to be here.”
Experiencing a Different Way of Training
One of the biggest differences Tiago noticed was the structure of daily training. Each session focuses on a specific aspect of the game, allowing players to work on details with clarity and intention.
“Every single day is a different part of the game. One day we work on passing, another day on shooting, another on defending one-on-ones. Every day is a new opportunity to learn.”
This approach gives players exposure to a complete football methodology, even within a short stay. Technical development, decision-making, and understanding of the game are emphasized in every session.
Understanding the European Football Pathway
Tiago also highlighted the difference between football pathways in the United States and in Spain. While the competitive level may feel familiar, the structure and opportunities are different.
“In the US, the highest level is MLS Next. Here, you have first division, second division, different federations. It feels more connected to professional football.”
This perspective is important for young players who want to understand how football development works in Europe and what pathways exist after the youth stages.
Living the Academy Experience
In addition to the training sessions, Tiago’s one-week stay allowed him to experience daily life within the Academy environment. Living, training, and sharing time with players from different countries is a key part of the program.
“Living this academy life for the week has been amazing. You meet new people, learn from coaches, visit a new city. You’re not just learning about football, but about new experiences and friendships.”
For players like Tiago, a short stay offers the opportunity to experience the program without a long-term commitment, helping them decide whether they would like to return for a longer period.
By the end of the week, Tiago had a clear idea of what the Academy represents and expressed his interest in returning in the future for a full program.
A First Step That Opens the Door
Tiago’s experience shows how even a one-week stay can provide real value. Players are able to:
- Train in a professional environment
- Learn the club’s methodology
- Experience daily academy life
- Understand European football pathways
- Decide if they want to continue with a longer program
This format allows families and players to test the experience, gain clarity, and take the next step with confidence.
Interested in a Similar Experience?
Players who want to experience this environment can do so through the International Football Summer Camp, where participants train, live, and learn within the same professional setting.
The Summer Camp offers young players the opportunity to:
- Train with official Deportivo Alavés coaches
- Experience the Academy environment
- Live an international football experience in Vitoria-Gasteiz
👉 Learn more about the International Summer Camp and register here:
https://www.baskoniaalavesacademy.com/international-summer-camp/
For many players, like Tiago, this experience becomes the first step toward understanding what football development in Spain looks like within the Baskonia Alavés Academy.