Unlocking Spain’s Soccer and Education Categories: What Every Young Player Should Know

May 21, 2025

Spain is not just a global powerhouse in soccer, it's a destination of dreams for thousands of young athletes who aspire to reach the top. From La Liga stadiums to elite academies, Spain offers a structured and deeply immersive environment where soccer and education go hand-in-hand.


But how exactly does the Spanish soccer system work? And how can international players align their academic goals with their athletic ambitions? Let’s dive into it.


Spain's Soccer Categories Explained

Spain’s soccer development model is considered one of the best in the world, thanks to its tiered and age-appropriate structure that ensures players grow progressively, technically, tactically, and mentally.



U8 to U12 – Fútbol 7 (Seven-a-side)

At these young ages, the focus is on fun, ball control, creativity, and confidence. Games are typically 7v7, allowing more touches and space per player. Think of it as the foundation phase of Spanish soccer.



U13 to U19 – Fútbol 11 (Full-sided matches)

From age 13 onwards, players transition to 11-a-side matches. These categories are divided as:



  • Infantil (U13–U14)
  • Cadete (U15–U16)
  • Juvenil (U17–U19) – This is where scouts and professional clubs start to watch closely.



Each of these has multiple levels:

  • Primera (regional league)
  • Preferente (more competitive)
  • Nacional (top youth division)
  • Juvenil División de Honor (elite level, where top academies play)



From the Juvenil level, standout players often move directly into semi-pro or pro contracts in clubs' B teams or get promoted to Tercera RFEF or even La Liga academies.


Education in Spain for Student-Athletes

Spain also boasts diverse education paths that allow young soccer players to study while training at high intensity.


Spanish Curriculum (ESO + Bachillerato)

  • ESO: Educación Secundaria Obligatoria (compulsory education from ages 12–16)
  • Bachillerato: A 2-year high school program (ages 16–18) that prepares students for university or technical degrees.


Many academies, including Spain Rush-SPF, partner with Spanish schools so international players can integrate seamlessly.


International Schools

Not fluent in Spanish yet? No problem. Spain also has top-tier international schools offering:


  • British Curriculum (IGCSE & A-Levels)
  • American Curriculum
  • International Baccalaureate (IB)


This ensures players can continue their home-country studies while living in Spain.


Why This Combo Matters

Combining professional soccer training with high-quality education means:


  • Players can chase their dreams without sacrificing academics
  • Parents have peace of mind about future career options
  • Athletes develop holistically, on and off the field


Your Path Starts Here

Whether you're a rising striker from the U.S., a talented midfielder from Malaysia, or a goalkeeper from Kenya, Spain is where dreams take shape.


At Spain Rush-SPF, our programs are designed to immerse players in elite soccer while offering access to both Spanish and international education. From tryouts and tournaments to UEFA Pro coaching and visa support, we are the bridge between passion and profession.

A group of young boys are playing soccer on a field.

Can I Get a Soccer Scholarship to Study Abroad? Here's Everything You Need to Know

May 27, 2025
If you’re asking yourself, “Can I get a soccer scholarship to study abroad?”, the answer is yes. With the right mindset, performance level, and guidance, earning a soccer scholarship overseas is more possible today than ever before. Whether your goal is to play in the U.S. college system, Spain, or other global destinations, this guide will walk you through the essentials.
A group of female soccer players are walking on a field.

Top 5 Reasons Why Training in Spain Could Launch Your Soccer Career

May 16, 2025
Every year, hundreds of young soccer players leave their home countries chasing one goal: to become professional players. And when it comes to world-class development, one destination stands above the rest Spain. From La Liga legends to rising global stars, Spain continues to be a global hub for Soccer excellence, and training here could be the decision that changes your life forever. Here’s why more and more talented players from places like the USA, Malaysia, Ghana, South Africa, and Tanzania are joining programs like Spain Rush-SPF.
A group of young men are running on a soccer field.

SUMMER CAMP YA KIMATAIFA HISPANIA 2025 – FURSA YA KIPEKEE KWA VIJANA WA KITANZANIA

May 8, 2025
Unayo ndoto ya kuwa mwanasoka wa kulipwa barani Ulaya? Je, unataka mtoto wako apate mafunzo bora ya soka akiwa kwenye mazingira salama, ya kisasa na ya kimataifa? Hii ndiyo nafasi ambayo umekuwa ukiisubiri kwa muda mrefu! Spain Rush-SPF Football Academy, moja ya akademia maarufu zaidi nchini Hispania, inawalika wavulana na wasichana kutoka Tanzania na Afrika Mashariki kwa ajili ya Summer Camp ya kipekee majira haya ya joto 2025.