Head Coach Jens Bäumer
The program is led by Head Coach Jens Bäumer (UEFA A License) an experienced German football coach respected for his structured player development methodology and leadership within elite youth football environments.
Known for his professionalism, tactical understanding, and ability to develop ambitious young players, Coach Bäumer emphasizes discipline, technical consistency, fitness, tactical awareness, and intelligent decision-making under pressure.
His training methodology reflects the tactical discipline and intensity associated with German football development.
Players train in a demanding yet supportive environment where accountability, consistency, and daily improvement are expected.
Assistant Coach Michael Scavuzzo (UEFA B License) is joining Coach Jens for the second year this season. Before successfully completing his coaching training and exam in Berlin, Michael played for Greifswalder FC as a forward. Greifswalder FC plays in Regionalliga Nordost (fourth tier of the German football league).
Daily High-Performance Environment
Players experience a structured weekly schedule that may include:
- Technical training sessions
- Tactical development
- Weekly league matches
- Video analysis
- Recovery sessions
- Strength and conditioning
- Team meals
- Academic study time
- Cultural activities and travel
International Player Support
International Soccer Academy understands that living and training abroad is both exciting and demanding for young athletes.
Players receive support throughout the season including:
- Mentorship and supervision
- Structured living environment
- Transportation coordination
- Assistance adapting to Germany
- Guidance balancing academics and football
- Ongoing communication with families
Living in Germany
Living abroad in Germany provides players with a valuable international experience that extends far beyond football.
Players gain exposure to European culture, independence, personal responsibility, travel, communication skills, and the discipline required to adapt to a new environment while pursuing high-performance athletic goals.
This cultural immersion becomes an important part of the overall player development process.
Residence at Palace St. George
Players reside at the highly regarded Palace St. George, a boutique hotel located within walking distance of BORUSSIA-PARK and the team’s training facilities.
The accommodations provide a safe, structured, and professional living environment designed to support athlete performance, recovery, nutrition, and focus throughout the season. The residence experience reinforces the discipline and consistency required within elite European football development environments.
Performance Nutrition at La Cottoneria
Located within Palace St. George, La Cottoneria is a highly regarded Italian and Mediterranean restaurant known for its healthy cuisine, modern industrial charm, and exceptional hospitality.
Popular among athletes and visitors alike, the restaurant emphasizes fresh ingredients and balanced meals that complement high-performance athletic lifestyles and recovery demands.
Both the hotel and restaurant are owned by the youngest chef to earn a Michelin star in Germany, reinforcing the elevated standards and quality experience surrounding the Integrated Academy environment.
Pathways Beyond the Season
Players in the Borussia Mönchengladbach Integrated Academy pursue a variety of long-term pathways, including:
- NCAA and collegiate soccer opportunities
- European football trials
- Academy advancement opportunities
- Gap year football development
- Professional club evaluations
- Long-term international football development
The program is designed to help ambitious players gain meaningful development, international experience, and exposure to environments that can support future progression within the game.