Developing football players and young people
The Academy aims to help children and young people learn skills and values for life.
As footballers, Academy players will be:
Skillfull | Technical | Game Aware | Brave
Willing to learn
Focused and hard working at school
Respectful of team-mates and coaches
However we also believe that football is more than just a game —in Rwanda it can bring communities together through its young people. With our partners Good News International delivering vocational training, and with players expected to work hard at school, the Academy can be a platform for growth, learning, and reconciliation.
Many of our players will come from tough backgrounds—but with the right support, mindset, and direction, our hope is to create life opportunities for players and coaches, and to have a significant impact of the communities involved
Small Sided games
The Academy has introduced the concept of small-sided games to Rwanda, both on match day and in training. The benefits are well documented:
More Ball Touches: Players get significantly more touches on the ball compared to traditional 11-a-side matches, leading to stronger development. For instance, a player in a 3v3 setup can average over 70 touches, compared to far fewer in larger formats
Faster Decision-Making: With less space and less time, players must scan the field quickly, anticipate pressure, and execute passes or shots under control.
Constant Physical Engagement: There is "no place to hide" in small-sided formats. Players constantly alternate between attacking and defending, which builds football-specific endurance, sprinting power, and agility.
Higher Engagement and Fun: More goals, more 1v1 duels, and continuous action keep players mentally locked in and boost overall enjoyment
Structured Training
Ball Mastery: High-repetition exercises with one player and one ball to improve touch and foot speed.
Receiving and Passing: Drills to sharpen the first touch and accuracy under pressure.
1v1 Attack and Defense: Teaches feints, changes of direction, and shielding to beat opponents or defend space.
Speed: Improves physical and mental reaction times, agility, and acceleration.
Finishing: Builds scoring techniques, composure, and courage in front of the goal.
Group Attack: Progresses individual skills into small-group combinations and fast breaks.
Innovation
At the Academy we believe on trying to do things differently and bring new footballing concepts to Rwanda. These include:
Small sided games
Structured training sessions
A football for each player (to enhance ball mastery)
Floodlights - to extend after school training hours x4
Small goals and footballs
Nutritional support for players
A focus on girls football
