You're about to sign with a team... Are you sure you checked everything?
Before signing a contract with a team you need to make sure you have discussed and agreed everything with them. We have come up with a list of things (see below) which need to be discussed. Most of these things are common sense but often, in the recruiting process, many of them get overlooked.
Contracts between players and teams offer a framework of expectations and a degree of security to both sides. You should examine your contract closely, and make sure the language and stipulations are something you can agree to.
Also, remember that to be signed with a team you should NEVER send money to anyone (regardless of the reason) or buy anything (even if you're told that you will be reimbursed). If in doubt you can of course contact Europlayers. If a team insists that you have to pay for something, simply tell them to deduct it from your first month's salary.
Take the time to go through this checklist with your future team before signing a contract with them. If you think something is missing from the list, please let us know.
Salary:
- How much will you be paid (amount and currency)?
- How often will you be paid (is it weekly (which day) or monthly (which date))?
- Keep in mind that you will not be making much money and will likely be taking a pay-cut when compared to any 9-5 job you could have had back home. The average team offers a salary that, when combined with your benefits package of housing, flights, etc., will cover your expenses and keep you fed, but don't expect to save much money during your time as an import.
Bonus:
- How much is the bonus (amount and currency)?
- What do you need to do to get one?
Housing:
- What is the exact address of the house/apartment?
- How many rooms (bedrooms, bathrooms, lounge, etc)?
- Ask for some pictures.
- Will it be a single or shared occupancy? If shared, how many people will you share it with?
- Will you get internet access (wifi) in the house/apartment?
- Who will pay for the rent (you, team or someone else)? If you have to pay for something, how much will it be?
- Who will pay for the utility bills (water, electricity, etc)? If you have to pay for something, how much will it be?
Transportation:
- Will the team provide you with a means of transport (bicycle, car, public transport)?
- If public transport: will the team pay for your pass?
- If bicycle: will it be shared? If so, how many people will you be sharing it with?
- If car: will it be shared? If so, how many people will you be sharing it with? Will you be allowed to use it for private journeys or will it just be to commute to the club/gym? Will you get a petrol/gas allowance? If so, how much?
Club/Training facilities:
- What is the exact address?
- How far is it from the house/apartment?
- How long does it take to get there from the house/apartment?
Gym (if not at the club):
- What is the exact address?
- What is the website (if any)?
- Ask for some pictures.
- How far is it from the house/apartment?
- How long does it take to get there from the house/apartment?
- Who will pay for the gym membership?
Equipment/Team gear:
- Will it be provided or do you need to bring gear from home (if so, what will you need to bring)?
Airfare (note that you should NEVER be asked to pay for your own air tickets. Note to teams: you should buy refundable tickets and send them to the player):
- Who will pay for the air tickets? Is it the team, a sponsor (if so, which one?), etc?
- How and when (exact dates?) will you be getting there and also returning home?
- Will it be a direct flight or will you need to change (if so, where)?
- Will you be picked up at the airport by a member of the team?
Medical insurance (VERY IMPORTANT! Injuries happen):
- Has the team confirmed that you will have medical insurance? If so, ask for proof of insurance including the start and end dates.
- What does the insurance cover?
Visa:
- How many days will you spend in the country of your new team?
- Depending on your country of origin, you might need a visa (e.g. visitor permit, work permit, professional visa, student visa, etc). Check this with your local consulate and discuss this with your team before travelling. It is your responsibility to check this BEFORE you travel to the country of your new team.
- For information, American citizens can usually stay in Europe for 90 days maximum without a visa but please check this as it might change depending on your personal circumstances.
Food:
- How many meals per day will be paid by the team?
- How will they be paid (cash or partnerships with local restaurants for free daily meals)?
- If cash, how much is the daily allowance and how often will it be paid?
- If partnerships with local restaurants, where is/are the restaurant(s)? Ask for name and address.
Mobile/Cell Phone (note that you will need to unlock your phone before you leave home if you're planning to use a European SIM card in it):
- Will the team pay for a pre-paid SIM card? If so, will they recharge it? How often?
Former import players/coaches:
- Has the team signed import players/coaches in the past?
- If so, ask for their contact details (name, email address, phone number) and contact them to discuss their experience with the team.
Other:
- Part-time job/internship: your day won't be as full as it was in college, take advantage of any opportunities to build your resume!
- Public events: how many will be asked of you?
Communication is key:
If upon arriving you realise that something is not as expected, go and talk to your coach or the team manager. Don't wait! They're here to help you.