Jan David, a certified specialist (DiS.) and Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), is a graduate of Prague Football College and a football manager with solid practical and business education. He currently works as an officer in the Logistics and Services Department of FAČR, where he is responsible for operational processes within the national federation’s structure.
Jan David shares his professional journey in football, reflects on the importance of systematic education for football officials, and explains how his studies helped him move from the regional level to professional work within the football hierarchy.
— Why did you choose Prague Football College?
— When I first saw the study program, I immediately knew it was the right path for me and submitted my application the very same day. I saw it as a unique opportunity to develop as a football official—an area where a systematic education program is essentially missing in the Czech Republic. Coaches and referees are educated under FAČR, but football administrators do not have such a system. That is where I see the great value and practical benefit of Prague Football College.
— What was the most beneficial part of your studies—theory, practice, or new contacts?
— The greatest benefit lies in the combination of theory and practice. The program offers high-quality theoretical modules closely connected to real-world operations of football clubs. New contacts and professional relationships also played a very important role and gradually contributed to my career development.
— Which module or lecturer had the biggest impact on your career?
— The most influential lecturer for me was Martin Hašek. I was also strongly inspired by Luboš Kubík Jr., who clearly explained how football clubs and associations operate in the United States, especially the model of university and school football.
— What exceeded your expectations during the studies?
— The wide range of lecturers and the depth of information they were able to share, as well as open discussions and the opportunity to debate specific topics and viewpoints directly with them.
— How did the studies change your view of football?
— I started to see football in a truly comprehensive way—far beyond just the game itself.
— Which moment confirmed that you had chosen the right path?
— When I realized that I could apply the acquired knowledge in practice—at district level, regional structures, and later in my role at FAČR. That confirmed the real impact of my studies on my career.
— What was the most challenging part, yet contributed the most to your professional growth?
— Probably the initial phase—adapting to the football environment, building contacts, and understanding all the internal processes and relationships within the system.
— How have the acquired skills helped you in practice?
— I use them across different levels of football—from district associations through regional structures to my work at FAČR. The studies gave me a systematic overview and a broad network of professional contacts in football.
— Who would you recommend the program to—beginners or experienced professionals?
— Definitely both. Prague Football College has the potential to educate a new generation of professionals capable of developing Czech football systematically from the ground up.
— What motivates you today to continue your career in football?
— The opportunity to actively influence football’s development and contribute to its professionalization, even at lower levels. When I started my studies, I was “only” a member of the Sporting-Technical Committee and the executive board of the District Football Association Příbram. During my studies, new roles gradually followed, and football eventually became my full-time profession. I see studying at Prague Football College as a path to fulfilling my dream—working professionally in football.