Andrew Grogan, former national player and coach, has officially launched the local arm of his ‘My Soccer Academy (MSA)’, as an avenue to give back and develop the discipline of football in Guyana.
The announcement ceremony occurred at the Ramada Princess Hotel yesterday, where several pieces of football equipment were presented to coaches Barry Atkinson and CONCACAF C-License tactician Edicka Benn. The aforementioned duo are the first individuals signed to the academy.
During brief remarks, Grogan stated that the main aim is to create a local coaching system of similar capacity, especially in the regions which have often been overlooked due to a lack of a scouting network and coaching infrastructure. He revealed that the programme will be managed by Sports592 under the guidance of local coach Mark Bradford, who will be responsible for the logistical aspects of the academy’s operation.
Grogan, who holds the distinction of serving Guyana as player and coach at both the Olympic and World Cup Qualifiers, heads the Florida-based institution which operates with a capacity of 10 qualified coaches. The academy focuses on large scale developmental initiatives targeting from grassroots to the U17 level.
He further revealed that coaches from other areas such as Orealla, Siparuta, Kwakwani and Sara Lodge are also scheduled to join the emerging programme, following the signing of respective Memorandums of Understanding (MoU).
Meanwhile, Bradford noted that the creation of the MSA chapter will assist the local federation in the development of the game, as it will provide an equal avenue and opportunity for emerging players who are not members of clubs within the respective Regional Associations. He revealed that coaches will soon be receiving their operational coaching kits to commence their respective sessions.
Similarly, Atkinson who hails from the Moruca Sub District of Region #1 and spoke on behalf of fellow coach Benn, praised Grogan for implementing this programme which affords players the opportunity to develop their respective talents in a structured manner.
