01
Our Mission & Values
Inter Academy Crete exists to develop young athletes — not only as footballers, but as people of character, integrity and ambition.
We operate under the official methodology of FC Internazionale Milano, applying a structured, values-driven approach to youth development. Every session, every interaction and every decision made within our Academy is guided by the following core values:
"We believe football is a vehicle for life. The lessons learned on our pitches — discipline, teamwork, resilience — are the same lessons that shape extraordinary human beings."
⚽
Excellence
We pursue the highest standards in coaching, training and player development, consistent with the Inter Academy global programme.
🤝
Respect
Every player, parent, coach and member of staff is treated with dignity, regardless of age, nationality, background or ability.
🛡️
Integrity
We act honestly and transparently in all matters — on the pitch, in the classroom, and in our relationships with families.
🌍
Inclusion
We welcome players from every corner of the world. Diversity is our strength. No form of discrimination is tolerated.
02
Players' Commitments
Every player who joins Inter Academy Crete accepts the following responsibilities as a member of our community.
2.1
Fair Play. Players commit to competing honestly and with sportsmanship at all times — in training, in matches and in all Academy activities. Cheating, simulation or deliberate foul play is unacceptable.
2.2
Respect for opponents and teammates. Players treat fellow athletes — whether on their own team or the opposition — with full respect. Verbal abuse, bullying or intimidation of any kind will result in immediate disciplinary action.
2.3
Respect for coaches and staff. Players follow the instructions of their coaches and Academy staff. Disagreements are resolved through dialogue, never through confrontation or disrespect.
2.4
Punctuality and commitment. Players arrive on time, prepared and focused. Consistent absenteeism or lack of effort — without valid justification — may result in removal from the programme.
2.5
Care for facilities and equipment. Players treat all Academy facilities, equipment and kit with care and responsibility. Any damage caused deliberately must be compensated.
2.6
Social media and public conduct. Players represent Inter Academy Crete at all times. Any public conduct — online or offline — that brings the Academy into disrepute will be subject to review by the Academy Director.
03
Coaching Staff Standards
Our coaches are ambassadors of the Inter methodology and of the values that define this Academy. They are held to the highest professional and ethical standards.
3.1
Player welfare first. The physical and psychological wellbeing of every player is the primary responsibility of every coach. Training must be appropriate to the age, ability and condition of each individual.
3.2
Positive coaching environment. Coaches must foster a positive, encouraging and constructive atmosphere. Negative reinforcement, humiliation or excessive criticism of players is strictly prohibited.
3.3
Equal treatment. All players receive equal attention, opportunities and development support, regardless of their current level or background.
3.4
Confidentiality. Coaches handle all information relating to players and families with full discretion and professionalism.
3.5
Continuous development. Coaches are committed to their own professional development and remain up to date with the latest Inter Academy methodology and best practices in youth coaching.
04
Families & Parents
Parents and guardians play a vital role in the development of every young player. Their support — both at home and on the sideline — shapes the experience for the entire Academy community.
4.1
Positive sideline behaviour. Parents are expected to cheer, encourage and applaud — never to shout abuse at players, coaches, referees or opponents. Any aggressive behaviour will result in the parent being asked to leave and the matter reviewed by the Academy.
4.2
Trust in the coaching process. Parents trust the Academy's coaches to make decisions in the best interest of their child's development. Coaching decisions are not to be questioned during training sessions or matches.
4.3
Communication through proper channels. Concerns, questions or feedback should be directed to the Academy Director through the appropriate communication channels — never directly confronted with coaches during sessions.
4.4
Support at home. Families are encouraged to reinforce the values of the Academy — discipline, respect and a love of the game — in the home environment.
05
Safeguarding & Child Protection
The safety and protection of all young players is non-negotiable. Inter Academy Crete operates with a comprehensive safeguarding framework aligned with international best practices.
5.1
Zero tolerance. Any form of physical, emotional or psychological harm to a player — by any adult within the Academy — will result in immediate suspension and referral to the relevant authorities.
5.2
Reporting obligations. All staff and coaches are obligated to report any concern regarding the welfare of a player to the Academy Director without delay.
5.3
Photography and media. No images or videos of players under 18 may be published on social media or any public platform without the explicit written consent of the player's parent or guardian.
06
Disciplinary Procedure
All reported breaches of this Code of Ethics are taken seriously. The following graduated procedure applies.
Step 1
Verbal warning. A formal verbal warning is issued by the Academy Director and recorded in the player or staff member's file.
Step 2
Written warning. A written warning is issued and shared with the player's family (in the case of a minor). A meeting with the Academy Director is required.
Step 3
Suspension. The individual is suspended from all Academy activities for a defined period while the matter is reviewed.
Step 4
Permanent exclusion. In cases of serious or repeated misconduct, the individual may be permanently excluded from Inter Academy Crete. In cases involving a minor, no refund of fees will be issued.
07
Acceptance & Agreement
By enrolling in Inter Academy Crete — as a player, parent, guardian or member of staff — you confirm that you have read, understood and agree to abide by this Code of Ethics in its entirety. This Code applies to all Academy activities, whether held on-site in Crete, during travel or online.
This document is reviewed annually by the Academy Director and updated in accordance with the standards of the FC Internazionale Milano Academy global network.
Issued by
Inter Academy Crete
Official FC Internazionale Milano Academy · Heraklion, Crete · Edition 2025
