The Bermuda Football Association (BFA) proudly announces the resounding success of its recent milestone event, celebrating the official designation of the BFA National Academy as a FIFA Talent Academy. The event marked a pivotal moment for football development in Bermuda, signifying a new era of enhanced opportunities for the nation’s most promising young footballers.
The evening was a vibrant testament to the BFA's commitment to nurturing local talent and its strengthened partnership with FIFA. The festivities commenced with a Small Sided Game Tournament featuring Under 13 Boys and Under 15 Girls, showcasing the exciting future of Bermudian football.
Talent Director, Maurice Lowe opened the ceremony with a prayer and then delivered the official welcome along with Mark Wade, BFA President, who both emphasized the significance of this achievement for the island.
A series of inspiring speeches followed featuring distinguished guests and key figures in the football community:
• Senator Mischa Fubler, Junior Minister of Tourism & Transport, Culture & Sport, highlighted the government's support for sports development.
• Clyde Best, a 2007 BFA Legend, shared words of wisdom and encouragement.
• Ryan Nelsen, FIFA TDS Lead, and Jake Littlejohn, FIFA Talent Coach, spoke on the global impact and opportunities presented by the FIFA Talent Academy program.
• Xonti Burch and Avery Taylor, two promising TDS Players, offered a youth perspective, underscoring the direct impact of such initiatives.
A significant moment arrived with the Coach Education Certificates Presentation, recognizing the dedication and hard work of local coaches. This was followed by a symbolic Shield Handover, further cementing the academy's new status.
The excitement peaked with the Tournament Finals, where the young athletes demonstrated their skills and passion on the pitch. The evening culminated in an Awards Ceremony, celebrating the achievements of the tournament participants.
The ceremony concluded with Ray Jones, BFA Treasurer, offering closing remarks, followed by a lively performance by the H&H Gombeys adding a unique Bermudian cultural flair to the celebration.
"This is a monumental achievement for Bermuda football," stated Mark Wade, BFA President. “We are incredibly proud of the work that has been done to satisfy all 54 criteria to become a FIFA Talent Academy. Becoming a FIFA Talent Academy provides our young athletes with unparalleled access to resources, expertise, and pathways that will elevate their development. We are looking forward to what new heights our players can reach in international competition.”
The Bermuda Football Association extends its sincere gratitude to FIFA, the Government of Bermuda, all speakers, participants, volunteers, and the community for their unwavering support in making this milestone event a resounding success.
|
