Curtis Biedermann’s Soccer Year in Germany: Growth, Grit, and Goals

Baiersdorf, Germany- For young Canadian Curtis Biedermann, the decision to join IFX for a Soccer Year in Germany was driven by a desire to challenge himself in one of the world’s top footballing nations. “Having an opportunity to play Fußball in one of the best countries, and seeing the level that other people are playing at, was a big motivation,” he shares.

Curtis’s journey began with a demanding trial process, where he quickly experienced the intensity and high standards of German youth football. “It was more fitness than any other team I’ve played for,” he recalls. That hard work paid off when he signed with SV Baiersdorfer U19, a competitive youth soccer club currently sitting 4th in the Landesliga Nord - Bayern, with ambitions to win the league and earn promotion to the German Youth second division.

A Soccer Year in Germany That Pushes Limits

Curtis describes the player development program offered by IFX as a key factor in his growth. “IFX has given me the opportunity to practice specific things outside of club training, allowing me to try new things and develop more,” he explains. This extra training has helped him train consistently, refine his technique, and master the basics of high-level soccer.

One standout aspect of his training has been touch restriction drills, which force players to think faster and improve decision-making before receiving the ball - a hallmark of soccer development in Germany. These methods are designed to improve physical fitness and tactical awareness, preparing players for the demands of European competition.

The structure of the program also supports a balanced lifestyle. “IFX has made it really easy to manage everything. We have school in the morning and training in the evening, so it doesn’t overlap,” Curtis says. This routine allows him to stay focused on both academics and athletics while living independently.

Life Abroad: Growth Beyond the Game

Living in Germany has brought its own set of challenges and rewards. Despite the busy schedule, Curtis is adapting well - enjoying the weather, meeting new people, and slowly improving his German.

Being part of an international youth soccer program has also broadened his perspective. “It really shows how many people are out there chasing the dream and willing to do what you may not want to,” he reflects. This global soccer network has exposed him to different playing styles, cultures, and levels of commitment.

Exposure to Soccer Clubs and Future Ambitions

Curtis’s experience with SV Baiersdorfer U19 has given him a full immersion into the regional Franconian football environment and serves as an excellent gate way towards his future football journey in Germany. “The team is very friendly, and the players are always pushing each other to be better,” he says. His goal is clear: help the team win the league and move up a division.

Looking ahead, Curtis sees his soccer player career only going “higher and higher.” Beyond the pitch, the experience has taught him how to live independently, manage responsibilities, and grow as a person - all part of the journey in a year abroad playing soccer.

Interested in following Curtis’s path?

Explore how the Pro IFX Year Germany program can help you train consistently, join competitive teams, and grow through a year of soccer abroad.