A futsal player’s career is often short, and reaching 30 is a significant milestone. Dídac, the goalkeeper for the Spanish national team, knows this well. Along with being a dedicated father and a university student, two years ago he made the decision to pursue a degree in sports management. Now, he juggles his studies with the demands of training and competing in the Futsal World Cup in Uzbekistan. At 34, he’s preparing for life beyond the 40×20 court, knowing that his playing days won’t last forever.
Dídac began his studies three years ago, during the World Cup in Lithuania. Recognizing that the end of his career was approaching and that it was the right time to start thinking about his future. Although his degree requires in-person attendance, Dídac is grateful for the flexibility provided to elite athletes. Allowing him to balance his studies with his intense training schedule. While he can’t often attend classes, the support from his professors has been invaluable, with many even offering personal contact to make things easier for him.
Challenges
Despite the challenges of balancing a World Cup with university work, Dídac remains committed to his studies. Often arranging tutorials or meetings with his teachers to stay on top of the coursework. Some professors even follow the futsal scene, recognizing him as a professional athlete. Although his classmates are mostly younger, Dídac feels welcomed and supported, especially when he participates in presentations or group projects.
Studying sports management has given Dídac insights into the business and legislative aspects of sports, a field he enjoys, particularly when it comes to learning about the power dynamics within federations and sports organizations. He hopes to use this knowledge in his post-playing career.
While balancing family life with his studies can be tough, especially with young children, Dídac looks forward to the day when he and his eldest son, Leo, can study together. For now, his focus is on the present—training, studying, and striving for success in the World Cup. If his team wins, he hopes to celebrate with a group trip rather than making bold promises like shaving his head.
Looking to the future, Dídac dreams of futsal becoming an Olympic sport and having the chance to compete in the Games. In life, his goal is to continue working in something he loves, ideally within the sports industry, where he can continue to grow and contribute.