Peter Forsberg: "It feels vital to transfer into working life in a sensible manner"

The first six student-athletes of the Johan Cruyff Institute Stockholm started the Management Diploma for Athletes Program. They are halfway their course, so we spoke to Peter Forsberg, one of Sweden’s finest ice hockey players, about his experiences thus far.

Why did you decide to educate yourself?
If you play ice hockey for 20 years like I have, it feels vital to transfer into working life in a sensible manner. I also wanted to do it directly after my ice hockey career, so that I didn't get used to doing nothing.

Why did you choose this specific programme?
It seemed very good and contained the courses and knowledge in sport management I wanted. The business part is important, as well as the leadership part. It also suited me very well time-wise, since I wanted to begin as quickly as possible.

What is your impression so far?
Very good. It is a serious programme and the teachers are great. My experiences are only positive so far. That we are six people with similar backgrounds, even if we have devoted ourselves to different sports, is also good. We have an easy time talking within the group and we understand each other’s situations very well.

Is there anything that is completely different from what you expected?
No, not really. I am a little surprised about how motivated I am. When I went to school as a teenager there were a lot of other things that seemed more interesting. Here it is completely different. With the quality that exists here you become really motivated.

What would you say to a person debating whether to invest in this programme?
I have actually gotten this question already, and I can only recommend! Definitely take the programme if you have the chance.

Thank you Peter, and good luck with your studies and career