Despite not yet having a sponsor, Kayo’s Football Academy plans to impact the lives of young footballers providing moral guidance and training as part of a programme designed to produce rounded individuals.
Founded in 2008 by former national Golden Jaguars midfield player Kayode McKinnon, with support from his family and some friends, Kayo’s Football academy aims to instil core values in youth to give them a sense of identity. McKinnon told Stabroek Sport that the Academy is designed to provide an enriching and challenging environment for the players; building confidence, respect, discipline, commitment, honesty and positive character, virtues imbued in its motto, “I am a very important person, in me there is success, I must respect others.”
The Academy was created for both boys and girls ages six to 16 and has to date registered more than 50 youth, of whom more than 30 are active. Currently, sessions are hosted every Saturday from 9am to 11am at the Linden Technical Institute.
The youths are divided into two groups, 6 to 11 and 12 to 16. The 6 to 11 group is considered the grassroots. McKinnon said this is where the sport is now being introduced to the players with more fun games while encouraging proper techniques and physical coordination. The older group is now engaged in principles of defending which will be held for the next ten weeks. These sessions are prepared by Kayode McKinnon who is currently overseas, and conducted by Joel McKinnon.
With a mission to create co-educational programmes for children’s development, it was noted that a curriculum is set for the rest of the year to address social and psychological issues. A ‘parent and child night’ might also be held, as McKinnon recognises the importance of building positive relationships within families. The Academy will also be involved in charitable activities, he said, adding that it is pushing to create a clear career path for the youths through elite programmes.
Regarding long-term goals, McKinnon said they are looking to acquire their own facility for training, education, practice and recreation. Helping players to play overseas professionally and helping student athletes to secure scholarships are also among the Academy’s goals. The Academy will also be hosting camps to focus on all aspects of honing players into becoming well-rounded citizens.
McKinnon extended gratitude to James ‘Gads’ Dennis who plays a fundamental role in contributing equipment for training. “I take this time to thank him and his entire family, including my friends and family for their generosity towards Kayo’s Football Academy,” he said.
