On 9 and 10 June, 2010, a group of the A2B project team has visited Finland, a very active nation and good practice example in the establishment and application of dual career structures. Organized by the A2B partner, the Finnish Olympic Committee, the two-day seminar took place at Mäkelänrinne Swimming Centre and the Sports Museum of Finland in Helsinki.

The study visit was enriched by Hannu Takkula, Finnish Member of the European Parliament, who contributed with a speech on dual career from a European perspective. It further involved presentations by athletes, coaches, educational institutions, sport organisations and an employment company.

Among the central features of Finnish dual career are strong networking and a flexible study system in combination with innovative technology: The network of ‘academies’, dedicated to young high level athletes, associates sport organisations and education institutions in the interest to facilitate athletes a joint education and sports career. Finland’s flexible educational system and highly advanced technology make athlete friendly studies such as distance learning possible. After ending their sports competition career, athletes have the opportunity to take part in an Athlete Career Programme.

In the frame of A2B activities, this second study visit has contributed to further identify and share good practices and create networking. The information gathered will flow into workshop discussions and serve as a basis for recommendations.

Detailed information can be found in the Study Visit Report to be published on this website within short time.

A2B would like to thank the Finnish team for the brilliant seminar.