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Amidst the plain fields of Masulita in Wakiso district, Uganda, lies a soccer academy that has been changing the lives of young athletes since 2010.
Amidst the plain fields of Masulita in Wakiso district, Uganda, lies a soccer academy that has been changing the lives of young athletes since 2010.
Founded by Alex Kalema, a CAF C holder and head coach, Kick it Academy has become a haven for both boys and girls who dream of playing soccer professionally.
Initially, the Academy was created to cater for boys. But after some consultations, the organization decided also to train young girls from the ages of six to 18 years.
Kalema, who also doubles as the Academy's founder, faced backlash from the community when he first proposed creating a girls' team. "We faced opposition from the community in regards to women's football as there was an obvious stereotype, but everything has slowly changed, and we are getting more girls," Kalema said.
Despite the challenges, the girls' team at Kick it Academy has grown to include 23 players who train regularly.
Professional players like Tito Okello, Semujju Joseph, and Nandego Rebecca have all passed through the ranks at the Academy, and the impact on the community continues to be felt.
According to Kalema, Kick It Academy has provided a platform for most of the players in the community to get scholarships with various secondary schools in the country.
"Around 80% of the children who have been through the academy have been awarded scholarships around the country to pursue their education is something we are very proud of," he said.
But the girls' team has been making waves in the community. Playing in the U14 Girls tournament is an exciting prospect for young athletes.
Coach Kalema believes it could be the perfect platform for them to be seen by others and possibly even the national team. "We are delighted to be participating in this tournament.
It gives our girls a platform to showcase their talent and be scouted by others," he added. Plans are also in place by the management for the Academy to have a futsal ground constructed at the facility due to the availability of land.
With more support and resources, Kick It Academy hopes to continue empowering young athletes in the community, regardless of gender, and help them achieve their dreams of playing soccer professionally.
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