Ugur Yildirim, born on March 12, 1985, in Rotterdam in the Netherlands, is a name synonymous with passion and dedication to football. After an impressive football career as a former world champion in free kicks and a former international player for the Dutch National Team, Yildirim has embarked on a new path as a (youth) coach. He began his coaching journey at Go Ahead Eagles as a youth coach and spent seven years working in the club's youth academy. "I have coached all the youth teams there," says Yildirim.

Between 2004 and 2007, Yildirim played for sc Heerenveen, where he made a significant impact, particularly in his first two seasons. He formed a dangerous partnership with Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, with Yildirim providing the assists and Huntelaar finishing the chances. Yildirim also had a knack for scoring from free kicks. As a testament to his expertise, Yildirim had the opportunity to participate in the one-time Free Kick World Cup in Marbella in late 2004, where he emerged as the champion, surpassing the renowned French superstar Zinedine Zidane. Winning the world title earned Yildirim a car. He was even called up by Marco van Basten to represent the Netherlands National Team, and he played his only international match on February 9 against England (0-0).

Since the past season, Ugur Yildirim has taken on the role of the new coach for sc Heerenveen under-18, marking his return to his former club. During the period between 2004 and 2007, he proudly wore the sc Heerenveen shirt 83 times, contributing with 12 goals and 25 assists. This was a successful period during which he also had the opportunity to represent the Netherlands National Team on one occasion.

Marcel van Buuren, Head of Youth Development: "Ugur, having had an impressive playing career at sc Heerenveen, is now building his career as a coach. He has previously worked as a coach for the Under-13 and Under-17 teams at Go Ahead Eagles. At our club, he will be responsible for the Under-18 team. We have had productive discussions and are confident that Ugur will be a valuable addition to our academy."

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