Why Mifra Academy is the Ideal Choice for Your Gap Year in Spain

There are many soccer programs around the world, but there are clear reasons why players choose Mifra Academy for their gap year in Spain. Our environment is designed to make the college transition smoother, combining high-intensity soccer training with the structure and support young players need to grow on and off the field.

Comprehensive Development: Exposure, Opportunity, and Structure

When families ask why choose Mifra, the answer is built on three pillars: development, exposure, and opportunity. From professional coaching to residence life, the Mifra Academy benefits are designed to prepare athletes for the next level.

Elite Soccer and Real Competition in Spain

Our players train every morning with the Mifra coaching staff and compete for Spanish clubs in official league matches. This means real competition, real minutes, and real growth. By placing athletes in top youth leagues, our program gives players the chance to improve:

• Technically, physically, and mentally.

• Gain visibility with college coaches.

A Unique Residence Program with Academic Support

Mifra is the only residence program with its own schools. This leads many families to choose our program because they know their children will continue studying while in Spain doing what they love, playing soccer. It is also a fully legal program:

• A visa process is required since all of our players are registered to compete for clubs that belong to the Spanish Federation.

• This exposure and official competition attract the attention of college coaches during their recruiting process.

Zaragoza: The Perfect Environment for Safe Independence

Being located in the heart of the city of Zaragoza—considered one of the safest and the third-largest city in Spain—allows players to become more independent. It is the perfect environment for players to enjoy themselves, explore a new culture, and grow as individuals when they are not playing games, training with their clubs, or studying at the Mifra school.

The Top 10 Reasons to Choose Mifra Academy

Our gap year players return home stronger, more confident, and more mature both as athletes and as students. They learn to manage their own routines, live independently, and adapt to a new culture while competing in one of the best soccer environments in the world.

1. Individualized Development Plans

Every player receives personalized attention. We evaluate strengths, weaknesses, goals, and create a specific development plan for each athlete.

2. Selective Program — We Don’t Take Everyone

Mifra is a small and competitive program. Players must meet criteria in soccer level and academics.

3. Academic Support + Recognized Credits

Mifra School provides academic classes so players continue their studies while in Spain, earning recognized credits for their education.

4. Real Competition in Spain

All of our players are placed on Spanish clubs and compete in official league matches. Real minutes, real pressure, real growth.

5. Legal Visa Process Guidance

We guide families through the official student visa process so players can register and compete under the Spanish Federation.

6. Located in the Heart of Zaragoza

Zaragoza is Spain’s third-largest and one of its safest cities. Players live like locals, learn Spanish, and gain independence in a safe environment.

7. Transportation Included

All players receive transportation for training sessions, club practices, games, medical appointments, school, etc.

8. 24/7 Supervision and Support

Our staff is always available for assistance, emergencies, and day-to-day needs. Parents receive updates and direct communication.

9. Weekly Video Analysis

Every Monday and Tuesday, players attend professional video analysis sessions after their club games to correct mistakes and improve decision-making.

10. College Recruiting Support

Mifra has its own recruitment staff that helps players connect with college coaches, build profiles, create highlight videos, and guide them through the entire college process until they sign.