The Excel National Training Centre Program

Elevate your game with our Excel training program at the iconic Olympic Stadium in Amsterdam

Players
Excel
Full-time
General Description
Course Setup and Schedule
Outcomes
Johan Cruijff Academy and College

Embark on an extraordinary rugby journey with the Excel National Training Centre, Aspire Academy’s crowning achievement in rugby development. Nestled within the historic walls of the Amsterdam Olympic Stadium, this elite program stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence.

Designed for top sport Rugby players aged 18-23, both men and women, the Excel National Training Centre (ENTC) is the pinnacle of rugby development. Eligible participants include players who have finished one of the six existing rugby academies (age 13-18) and/or National Team level players (U17 / 18 / 20 / Delta).

 

More then Rugby 

We recognize that true excellence extends beyond the field, and through our partnership with Rugby Netherlands, our program is now part of the Pathway of Rugby Netherlands. This affiliation makes participants eligible for a topsport status from NOC/NSF. Topsport Amsterdam has informed all colleges and universities about the ENTC Program, enabling participants to seek exemptions through the topsport coordinators of their respective schools (such as ROC Amsterdam, HvA, VU, UvA, etc.). 

Additionally, the Johan Cruijff schools are fully equipped to support topsport athletes and can seamlessly integrate The ENTC program. For those driven by a thirst for knowledge, Johan Cruijff College & Academy offers tailored MBO and HBO studies. These programs are designed to align perfectly with the demanding schedules of the ENTC Program, allowing participants to pursue education without compromising their dedication to rugby.

 

Housing

ENTC participants are also eligible—through Topsport Amsterdam—for student accommodation in Amsterdam in one of their topsport houses, at affordable prices, subject to availability. This provides a fantastic opportunity for participants to live in an environment that supports their training and development needs, fostering a sense of community and belonging among like-minded athletes.

 

International Pathway

Moreover, ENTC seamlessly integrates with the renowned international programs of 6 months of SASRII and Inside Running in South Africa and New Zealand, respectively. ENTC will be a perfect preparation for these high-performance programs overseas, but also a great place to come back to. So the experience and adventure gained can be maintained and even further developed.


Structured in blocks, each segment of the Excel Program culminates in a comprehensive evaluation, marking your progress on the path to greatness. At the heart of our approach lies the Individual Development Plan (IDP), a blueprint for success crafted collaboratively at the beginning of the training year. Break down overarching goals into tangible milestones, and witness your evolution unfold.

After each block, your individual progress is meticulously measured against these milestones. Enter the realm of the Individual Support Plan (ISP) meetings, where personalized feedback and results-driven discussions pave the way for refinement. The IDP becomes your guiding light, ensuring that every step forward is purposeful and aligned with your unique journey to peak performance.

This intentional and iterative process is the essence of the Excel Program—a commitment to your growth, development, and continuous improvement. Let the IDP be your silver lining, guiding you through the transformative journey that awaits at Aspire Academy’s Excel National Training Centre. This isn’t just rugby; this is the pursuit of excellence in every aspect of your game.

 

 

 

ENTC participants engage in a comprehensive training schedule, meticulously designed to cover all facets of rugby development. Training sessions are held on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday afternoons, encompassing a wide array of disciplines critical to the modern rugby player. This includes Strength & Conditioning (S&C), on-field practice, position-specific training, game analysis, and mental health sessions, ensuring a well-rounded approach to player development.

In recognition of the importance of nutrition in an athlete’s regimen, Aspire, through Topsport Amsterdam, offers nutritious meals either before or after training sessions. This thoughtful provision ensures that players are optimally fueled for both performance and recovery.

The training times have been carefully selected to allow participants the flexibility to return to their clubs for evening training sessions. This dual engagement ensures that players can benefit from the high-level training at ENTC while remaining integrated with their club teams.

Understanding the demands placed on elite athletes, the training load at ENTC is managed with precision. This approach ensures that players can withstand the rigors of an intensive training schedule without compromising their health or performance. By balancing ENTC activities with club commitments, we ensure that participants receive the best possible preparation for the challenges of professional rugby, fostering resilience, skill, and versatility.

 

Training Philosophy:

Our training sessions are rooted in high performance. Clear explanations are provided during meetings, ensuring participants understand the goals and expectations. On the pitch, we demand full focus with minimal talk and no explanations. Exercises are explosive, with a focus on a limited number of repetitions. This approach optimizes training time, facilitates significant improvements, and prevents overtraining.

Upon completion of the Excel National Training Centre, participants will emerge as well-rounded athletes equipped to excel on and off the field. The program focuses on advancing individual skills, achieving fitness benchmarks, and instilling the core ASPIRE values for personal growth and leadership. 

Moreover, the ENTC serves as an excellent alternative for those considering professional clubs in France or universities in the UK. By keeping Rugby NL informed through videos and statistics, and leveraging our connections with pro clubs and agents, the program becomes an opportunity to continually enhance one’s rugby CV. 

Our ultimate goal is to be the primary supplier of players for the National Teams, with an additional aspiration to see our top players succeed internationally by playing for esteemed clubs overseas.

Netherlands vs Belgium (REC U20)

 

Introduction:

Aspire Academy is proud to collaborate with the prestigious Johan Cruyff Academy and Johan Cruyff College, collectively known as the Johann Cruyff Schools. This partnership reflects our commitment to offering a holistic approach that combines top-tier sports training with quality education. Together, we empower aspiring athletes to excel not only on the field but also in their academic pursuits and personal development.

Program Overview:

Our collaboration provides athletes with the opportunity to pursue full-time MBO (Intermediate Vocational Education) and HBO (Higher Professional Education) studies in conjunction with their sports training at Aspire Academy. This unique blend ensures that athletes can achieve excellence in both their chosen sport and academic endeavors.

MBO Studies:

Sport & Business (MBO-level 4):

  • Marketing & Communication Specialist: Tailored for individuals passionate about sports, this program delves into the intricacies of the sports industry. It equips students with the skills to understand sports markets and capitalize on opportunities.

Sport & Coaching (MBO-level 4):

  • Trainer-coach/Instructor: Designed for those who recognize the significance of sports and physical activity in daily life, this program prepares students to help others unleash their full potential.

HBO Studies:

Sportmarketing voor Topsporters:

  • A specialized HBO program falling under Commercial Economics/Sport Marketing. This study is dedicated to athletes aspiring to excel in sports marketing while pursuing a full-time higher education degree.

Benefits of the Collaboration:

  • Admission to Johan Cruyff Academy’s HBO program is reserved for athletes who are part of the national elite in their respective sports and age groups.
  • Student-athletes motivate each other in both sports and academics, fostering a supportive learning environment.
  • The curriculum is meticulously crafted to be 100% sports-focused, ensuring students receive personalized guidance for managing their studies alongside their athletic commitments.
  • Emphasis on entrepreneurial skills in approaching studies, a valuable asset for future careers.

This collaboration symbolizes a commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals who not only thrive in their sporting endeavors but also emerge as leaders with a solid educational foundation. Aspire Academy and the Johann Cruyff Schools stand united in shaping the future of passionate athletes.

For more information visit the websites of Johan Cruijff College and Johan Cruijff Academy.

General Description
Course Setup and Schedule
Outcomes
Johan Cruijff Academy and College
Players
Excel
I am Interested!
Great! Get a free consultation without any further obligations with one of our specialists to discuss this program in depth and answer any questions you may have.

Click below to claim your free consult now!
Get a Free Consultation**

Don’t just take our word for it

  • Excellent!
    By TJ
    As an aspiring rugby player, ENTC has been my game-changer. The top-notch coaching, tailored programs, and exposure to international standards have elevated my skills. It's not just training; it's a transformative rugby journey that prepares you for excellence on and off the field.
  • Great Approach
    By Sarah
    Choosing ENTC for my son was the best decision. The holistic approach, focus on values, and partnerships with top academies ensure a well-rounded development. It's more than a program; it's a supportive community that believes in Better People making better rugby players
  • A platform with Impact!
    By Tjadde, Founder Aspire Academy
    ENTC's impact on talented Dutch players will be undeniable. The structured training, individual development plans, and partnerships with top clubs and international academies result in remarkable progress. This program will shape players into future rugby leaders!

FAQs

I have training with the National team on Mondays from April to October. How will that work?

As a partner of Rugby Netherlands, we fully understand and support commitments to the National Team. If you've made it to the High-Performance Mondays, that's fantastic! Our training sessions and setup align closely, so it won't be an issue if you are not present on those days. Your commitment to national duties is acknowledged and accommodated within our program structure.

How can I combine the ENTC program with my studies?

We have a partnership with Johan Cruijff College and Academy. With them we have coordinated the training times so that you can become better at your sport and get a degree at the same time. We also work in close cooperation with Topsport Amsterdam. On an individual basis a lot is possible. However participating in the ENTC program will require you to study in Amsterdam

I have club trainings on Tuesday and Thursday, and my club emphasizes attendance. How will that work?

Our program accommodates club commitments with lighter exercises on those days, ensuring you don't overtrain or risk injury. We value your club involvement and maintain close communication with clubs to facilitate your participation in their training sessions. Our aim is to complement your club training schedule.

What is the best way to reach Olympisch station?

Detailed directions on reaching Olympisch station, whether by car or public transportation, are available on our Location page. Visit the Location page for comprehensive guidance on the most convenient route to our training facility.