Young footballers braved overnight rains to attend the opening of the Play Soccer Malawi Academy at Bingu National Stadium, showing strong passion and commitment on the very first day.
Twenty-nine children under the age of 12 turned up on Tuesday morning, some travelling from as far as Area 25, to begin their football journey.
The academy is overseen by FIFA Coach Educator Developer Patricio Kulemeka, who supervises Play Soccer Malawi programmes across 12 districts.
In Lilongwe, the organisation is expanding into several communities, including areas around Bingu Stadium, Kawale, Falls and a street football programme for vulnerable children in Mtaya.
Kulemeka said he was impressed by the turnout, especially despite the bad weather.Speaking to the young players, Kulemeka stressed that the academy focuses on both football and education.
He explained that children who perform well at school will be rewarded, with support from international partners.
Awards will include football boots and tracksuits for players who excel on the pitch, show good character and do well in class.
He encouraged the children to value the chance to be trained by qualified coaches, noting that many former Play Soccer Malawi players have gone on to achieve success.
Kulemeka himself is a respected coach and scout who previously helped build one of Malawiâs top youth academies, Surestream Academy.
Kulemeka also urged nearby communities to send their children to the academy, highlighting that the programme is based at the modern Bingu National Stadium and is already well equipped with training materials to support player development.
Lilongwe District Youth Football Committee Chairperson John Mkisi also addressed the children, encouraging them to work hard and dream big.
He said he hopes to see some of them playing for the Malawi national team in the near future and promised full support from his committee.
The launch was attended by Play Soccer Malawi Bingu Stadium Coordinator Erik Chiputula, boysâ coach Kelvin Wahera and girlsâ coach Patricia.
More coaches who recently completed the FAM D Coaching Course at Civo Stadium are expected to join the existing technical team as training continues from tomorrow morning.
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