Geylang International East Football Academy ready to soar
Geylang International Football Club (GIFC) announced today the launch of the Geylang International East Football Academy (GIEFA). This initiative has been realised through a new partnership with United World College (UWC).
The foundation of GIEFA will bolster the grassroots development efforts already underway at GIFC, which encompasses three youth squads- U-15, U-17, and U-21. GIEFA will cater to younger age groups, specifically U-8, U-10, and U-12, with trainees selected to progress to GIFC’s youth squads based strictly on ability, application and desire for a development pathway for a career in professional football.
GIEFA stands as a unique football academy, meticulously designed for developing elite footballers. Complemented by state-of-the-art facilities at UWC, the academy ensures that every budding player is given an environment conducive to excelling.
Under its collaboration with UWC, GIEFA trainees will also receive specialised medical and sports science support. This partnership ensures that its trainees are granted holistic care, striking a balance between their physical performance and overall well-being.
GIEFA’s vision for its trainees also goes beyond training as players are presented with a clear pathway to professional football careers- not just in the Singapore Premier League, across Asia but also on the global stage through GIFC’s regional club collaborations and its partnership with the City Football Group network. At its heart, GIEFA is not just an academy; it’s a springboard for the football stars of the future.
To bring this vision to life, the academy aims to instil a competitive spirit in these young trainees from an early age, providing them with chances to compete in both domestic and international tournaments.
In terms of local competitions, they are slated to participate in events such as the JSSL and Singapore Youth League. Internationally, they will have the opportunity to compete in tournaments abroad.
Furthermore, GIEFA’s leadership comprises two eminent coaches: Ryan Northmore from England and Spanish native Jesus Sanchez Camacho Matilla.
Northmore, with a rich playing history that includes representing Torquay United FC in the EFL League Two, is a UEFA A License holder. His extensive coaching journey has seen him mentor youth sides of clubs like Bristol FC and Southampton FC, as well as overseas stints with Saif FC in Bangladesh and Arar FC in Saudi Arabia.
Camacho, meanwhile, boasts the Spanish Level 3 Football Coach qualification, on par with UEFA PRO. A standout moment in his career was coaching the U-15 team of La Liga titans, Atletico Madrid.
Northmore said: “This partnership is a game changer. Young players will work with our technical team through a multidisciplinary approach set in outstanding facilities. Serious players who are determined to maximise their potential have a unique provision in place with a pathway direct into the Singapore Premier League.”
Thomas Gay, Chairman of GIFC said: “We are delighted with our newest partnership with UWC and are confident of unearthing future stars of football from the Geylang International East Football Academy. These are certainly exciting times for Geylang International and we look forward to welcoming the next generation of promising footballers from the academy.”
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