Lasell University and ISSPF Partner to Elevate Soccer Science and Performance Coaching in the USA
In a ground-breaking collaboration that promises to revolutionize the landscape of soccer science education and performance coaching, Lasell University in Boston has partnered with the International Soccer Science & Performance Federation (ISSPF).
This strategic alliance is set to offer a comprehensive range of online educational programs, from short courses to advanced degrees, designed to meet the growing global demand for specialized knowledge in the field of soccer science and performance coaching.
Collaboration Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup
As soccer’s popularity continues to surge in the United States, particularly with the anticipation of the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, the need for advanced training and educational services, coupled with performance and coaching education in soccer science has never been more critical.
This partnership aims to bridge the gap by providing cutting-edge educational opportunities that will equip coaches, physical therapists, kinesiologists, sports science enthusiasts, trainers, and sports coaching professionals with the skills and knowledge required to excel in high-performance team sports environments.
The initial initiative of this collaboration has been the introduction of a series of short courses in high-performance coaching specifically tailored for soccer. These courses are meticulously designed for technical and performance coaches, therapists, trainers, and sports professionals who are eager to enhance their understanding of performance optimization, injury prevention, and advanced coaching techniques.
Details of the Lasell University and ISSPF Partnership
The curriculum, developed by a global faculty of experts, combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring that participants can immediately apply new strategies to their coaching practices. This practical approach is crucial for the immediate improvement of coaching quality and the overall performance of sports teams and individuals.
In addition, Lasell University plans to offer sport and exercise science degrees with specialized concentrations in key soccer science and performance coaching topics. These degree programs will integrate key elements such as strength and conditioning, coaching principles, performance analysis, physiology, psychology, and nutrition, all tailored specifically for soccer and team sports.
The primary objective is to produce graduates who are not only proficient in general sports science but also possess in-depth, specialized knowledge in team sports and soccer performance. This specialized focus will prepare students for a variety of roles within the sporting industry but focussing their approach around soccer, including coaching, sports management, and performance analysis, thus filling a vital niche in the market.
A Groundbreaking Soccer Partnership
The longer-term vision as part of this partnership will see the conception of the first-ever USA-based Master’s Degree in Soccer Science & Performance Coaching. This advanced degree will be validated and accredited through Lasell University, ensuring it meets high academic standards and remains relevant to industry needs, but accessed from anywhere in the world through online learning.
The program will be designed to cater to professionals who aim for coaching and leadership roles in soccer and team sports performance. By providing this advanced level of education, the partnership seeks to foster the development of highly skilled professionals who can contribute to the evolution of soccer science and performance coaching on a global scale.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, being one of the most prestigious and widely viewed sporting events globally, will undoubtedly bring unprecedented attention to the sport in the region.
By developing these cutting-edge educational programs, Lasell University and ISSPF are positioning themselves as leaders in preparing the next generation of soccer professionals who will play a crucial role in the sport’s growth and success during and after the World Cup. This strategic foresight ensures that the programs will not only meet current demands but also anticipate future trends and needs in soccer performance coaching.
“We are thrilled to partner with Lasell University to advance the field of soccer science and performance coaching across the region and the USA in general. This collaboration will provide unprecedented leading educational opportunities and help cultivate the next generation of soccer science and team sport professionals.
The timing is perfect as we build towards the excitement of the 2026 World Cup in North America, and all those next generation of sporting professionals who see themselves impacting the World’s greatest game over the next few years.”
ISSPF Business Team
A unique and highly valuable aspect of this partnership is the involvement of a global faculty of experts from ISSPF, who are aligned with Lasell University’s academic framework. These experts bring a wealth of experience and knowledge from various aspects of soccer science and performance, including renowned coaches, sports scientists, and performance analysts who are all industry leaders in their fields of practical and academic excellence.
This international perspective enriches the educational experience, providing students with diverse insights and practices from around the world. The global faculty ensures that the curriculum is comprehensive and reflective of the latest developments in soccer science, thus maintaining the programs’ relevance and excellence.
Dr. Sarah Giasullo, a key figure in this collaboration, has been instrumental in forging this partnership. Her vision is to maximize the potential of working with industry leaders in soccer science and performance coaching through Lasell University.
“This partnership with the ISSPF will enable students from all across the USA the chance to connect with elite level, soccer industry leading practitioners to learn from. As we grow our partnership and the offerings from short courses through to significant online program offerings, we aim to become a leader in the field of soccer science & performance coaching education here in the USA.
This is a very exciting partnership and one that we feel comes at the right time in line with the growth of the sport in the country”.
Dr. Sarah Giasullo
The Growth of Soccer in the USA
The partnership between Lasell University and ISSPF marks a significant milestone in soccer education and performance coaching. By offering a range of educational programs from short courses to a prospective master’s degree, this collaboration is set to enhance the skills and knowledge of soccer professionals globally. These initiatives will not only elevate the sport’s profile and performance standards across North America but also have a profound impact on the global soccer community.
The enthusiasm for soccer in the United States has been steadily growing, and the build-up to the 2026 World Cup is accelerating this trend. Soccer, once considered a fringe sport in the US, has now become a major part of the country’s sporting landscape.
Major League Soccer (MLS) has seen substantial growth in both viewership and participation, and youth soccer is flourishing, with millions of children playing the sport across the nation. The World Cup is expected to serve as a catalyst for further growth, bringing new fans to the sport and inspiring the next generation of players and coaches.
Moreover, the global reach of ISSPF ensures that students at Lasell University will benefit from a truly international education. The faculty includes experts from various countries, each bringing unique perspectives practical experiences and industry insights to the table.
An Opportunity for New Careers in Soccer
This diversity enriches the learning experience, exposing students to a wide range of coaching styles, performance strategies, and scientific approaches. It also prepares them to work in different cultural contexts, an essential skill in today’s globalized sports industry.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, the partnership between Lasell University and ISSPF will play a crucial role in preparing the next generation of performance experts with a key understanding of soccer science and coaching.
From coaches and trainers to performance analysts and sports scientists, the programs developed through this collaboration will ensure that the US steps into the role of educating these individuals on a global scale through ISSPF and Lasell University.
The timing of this partnership, in the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup, is particularly significant, as it positions Lasell University and ISSPF as leaders in preparing the next generation of soccer professionals.
This initiative not only meets the current demand for specialized education in soccer science but also anticipates future trends, ensuring that the programs remain relevant and impactful for years to come. With the involvement of a global faculty of experts and the visionary leadership of Dr. Sarah Giasullo, this partnership is poised to make a profound and lasting contribution to the field of soccer science and performance coaching.
To remain updated about the partnership and the offerings of Lasell University and ISSPF view all the courses available here ISSPF and also throughout combined social media platforms:
@ISSPF on Linkedin, Instagram and Facebook
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