Elite Coaching Academy (ECA) in the United Kingdom (UK) and Unique Global Academy both promised to provide world-class coaching and development opportunities for aspiring players from 12 to 19 years to enhance the country's football infrastructure and foster future professional athletes.
Head of Recruitment at Crystal Palace FC, Colin Barnes is set to lead a series of events in The Gambia in the coming week, which include football trials for players from 16 to 19 years.
The imitative is aimed at selecting at least ten young talented players for training with ECA, which would earn them professional clubs in England and Europe.
The Elite Coaching Academy (ECA) and Unique Global Academy are set to continue Professional Development course for scouts and coaches led by The Gambia Minister of Sports.
The course aimed at introducing best practices from the English football system, which has seen significant improvements since late 1990s.
Head of Recruitment at Crystal Palace FC, Colin Barnes, emphasised the importance of identifying players based on their athleticism, technique and spirit, adding that raw talent alone won't get them there.
He noted that critical developmental years for young players occur between 9 and 12 years, adding that there is need for structuring coaching and facilities to nurture their growth.
President of Unique Global Football Club, Papa Yusupha Njie, expressed optimism that their collaboration with Elite Coaching Academy would enhance Gambian football.
"We believe that Gambian football is at a stage that we need to take it to the next level,’’Njie said.
Njie stated that Elite Coaching Academy is commitment to develop young talent, adding that they are also expected to provide Gambian players with unique opportunities that could shape their future in professional football.
Vice President of Unique Global Football Club, Saul Frazer, revealed that the initiative seeks to create opportunities for future professional players, adding that the initiative is also aimed at elevating standard of football in The Gambia.
“We know it’s a long and hard journey, but we are willing to be part of it,” he added.
The presence of experienced coaches and scouts from the UK is set to bring valuable opportunities for Gambian players and pave way for their success on the global stage.
