SLFA to Establish Football Academy Following U-15 Team’s FIFA Success
Sia Lucy Kannah The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has reaffirmed its commitment to establishing a dedicated football academy to identify, develop and nurture young football talents following the Sierra Leone U-15 National Team’s participation in the FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival in Baku, Azerbaijan.
The commitment was highlighted during a welcoming ceremony held at the SLFA Secretariat following the team’s return home from the international competition, where federation officials praised the players for representing the country and gaining valuable international experience.
Speaking on behalf of SLFA President Babadi Kamara, Executive Committee Member and Chairman of the SLFA Youth Football Committee, Mohamed Sorie Jalloh, said the federation remained committed to creating an academy that would provide young players with opportunities to develop their abilities and prepare for higher levels of football.
Jalloh encouraged the players to remain disciplined, focused and dedicated to their development, while warning them against harmful behaviours, including drug abuse.
SLFA General Secretary Mohamed Benson Bawoh also stressed the importance of grassroots football development, describing investment in young talents as essential to building a stronger senior national team, the Leone Stars.
He disclosed that SLFA leadership closely monitored the team’s progress throughout the competition despite the time difference.
“We were not there, but we felt like we were there. Everyone, including the President, was waking up at 2:00 AM, 3:00 AM, and 5:00 AM to watch you play,” Bawoh said, while calling for the expansion of structured youth development categories.
Head of Delegation and Chairman of the Southern Region Football Association, Joseph Benedict Mbogba, described the tournament as a significant learning experience for the young players.
He praised the squad for its composure and commitment, adding that he intended to formally recommend Sierra Leone’s continued participation in future editions of the tournament to accelerate youth football development.
SLFA Technical Director John Edward Keister also congratulated the team, commending the technical staff and delegation leadership for their dedication to maintaining players’ welfare throughout the competition.
Meanwhile, Head Coach José Solomon Cortés thanked President Kamara and the SLFA Executive Committee for providing the squad with an international platform to showcase its talent.
Cortés urged the federation to maintain the core group of players, noting that continuity and consistent support would be essential to maximising their potential and building a competitive national team for the future.
The welcoming ceremony was also attended by Deputy General Secretary Ishmail Saidu Kanu, Women’s Football Manager Elizabeth Alberta Kailay and Safeguarding Manager Aiah Alusine Kabba.
The federation’s commitment to establishing a football academy is expected to strengthen grassroots development efforts and create a pathway for young Sierra Leonean players to progress into the senior national team.