Internship:
Sports Science
Thessaloniki, Greece
Highlights
Our Sports Science Internship offers a unique opportunity for students to gain immersive international experience while continuing to train for their sport, develop lasting friendships with fellow interns from across the U.S., and enjoy a life-changing experience abroad.
Interns can choose to complete a Coaching and/or Physical Therapy internship, exposing them to various methodologies in the context of athletic performance. We help students align these projects with their career goals in order to gain hands-on experience that will boost their resumes.
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Internships are available to both athletes and non-athletes of all majors. This internship is particularly catered to students with the following career interests:
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Coaching
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Youth Development
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Sports Management
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Exercise Science
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Sports Psychology
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Nutrition
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Education
Internship Description
Students can choose from one of the following internships, or combine both for a holistic experience in ensuring their athletes are physically and mentally prepared for competition. Our local staff will guide students through the placement process and provide on-site support throughout the duration of the program. For students seeking academic credit, we will work with them to meet university requirements.
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Coaching Internship
Students will collaborate with a local club’s Youth Development and Academy Departments to manage and expand their summer basketball or soccer programs. This internship is open to all students, regardless of their background in the sport, offering a variety of ways to contribute. Additional responsibilities may include organizing team-building or mindset activities, creating self-guided nutrition or fitness plans, or other administrative tasks.
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Meet one of our partners from 2024, YMCA Thessaloniki: Founded in 1921, the YMCA has a long history of promoting social welfare, education, and sports in the community. Initially established to support young refugees and war victims after World War I, it has grown into a leading institution offering a wide range of programs. YMCA Thessaloniki provides sports programs, youth development initiatives, and cultural and educational activities aimed at fostering social inclusion and well-being for individuals of all ages.
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Physical Therapy Internship:​
Students will have the opportunity to shadow professional therapists who work with both athletes and non-athletes in areas such as personal training, nutrition, rehabilitation, and sports-specific conditioning. Throughout the internship, students will be exposed to new tools, techniques, and methodologies in physical therapy and fitness. Under the guidance of their supervisor, they will have the chance to apply these new skills in a practical setting, gaining hands-on experience in real-world rehabilitation and training environments.​
Life in Thessaloniki
Lodging & Meals
Students will reside in a centrally-located university residence with fellow interns and other international students. Each accommodation includes:​
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Breakfast & dinner, daily (dietary restrictions accommodated)
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Twin bedroom with essential furnishings: bed, linens, bath towels, closet, dresser, desk & nightstand
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Private bathroom
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Laundry, available weekly​
After enrollment, students will complete a housing questionnaire to help our local team match them with the most suitable roommate, based on their preferences and needs.
Sports Abroad
Students will be given access to a centrally located gym, allowing them to maintain their individual fitness routines with 4-5 workouts per week.
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In addition, students will have opportunities to engage with local sports teams and participate in training sessions alongside U.S. and international athletes, depending on their sport and location.
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Our team is committed to supporting each student’s athletic goals. We will work closely with students to craft a personalized training plan, based on availability, which can be discussed during the interview process.
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We will ensure the best possible facilities that a location can offer.
Excursions
One weekend of the program includes guided excursions led by SAA staff, with all lodging, meals, and transportation provided. The additional weekend is free for students to organize their own independent travel.
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Students will enjoy an overnight trip to Halkidiki, a stunning beach town on the Aegean Sea just south of Thessaloniki. Here, they can snorkel in crystal-clear turquoise waters and unwind on pristine white-sand beaches. Following this coastal retreat, students will embark on a challenging half-day hike through the lush landscapes of Mt. Olympus, offering a mix of adventure and breathtaking scenery.
Program Details
Dates:
Session I: May 30 - June 20, 2025
Session II: June 20 - July 11, 2025
Tuition: $4595
Included:
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Housing in a shared residence hall
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Breakfast & dinner, daily
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Round-trip airport transfers (on arrival & departure days)
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One weekend excursion
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Gym membership
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Sport-specific training opportunities (varies by sport)
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International Health Insurance
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SAA Program T-Shirt
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Internship placement
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Additional professional development opportunities
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Full pre-departure support & orientation
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Local Support Staff 24/7
Not Included:
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Roundtrip airfare to Thessaloniki, Greece (SKG)
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Passport/associated fees, if applicable
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Lunch, daily
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Snacks, souvenirs, & optional entertainment expenses
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Card fees associated with tuition payments (ranging from 3-5%, varies by card). Card fees can be avoided by paying with a US Checking Account.
Payment:
​If accepted, a $250 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your spot. The remaining balance will be paid in installments. Exact payment dates and amounts are outlined in registration. ​
Capacity:
This program is capped at 10 students. Programs are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Admission Process
1. Apply
Fill out a free application form. We are looking for students who are invested in their professional and personal growth.
2. Interview
Applicants selected to move forward will receive an email to schedule a 20-minute phone interview with our admissions team.
3. Register
If selected, you'll receive the link to register for your program. A $250 deposit is required to reserve your spot.
Questions?
Schedule a call with our team or check out the additional resources on our website!
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