Former Reggae Boy Stevens starts football academy

FORMER REGGAE Boy Errol Stevens has established the Errol Stevens Football Academy in hopes of using the sport to change young lives.

“The inspiration for the academy has come from my humble beginnings in life and how football has changed my life, and I wish to do that for the next generation. I’ve played all over the world and represented my country and I know I have a lot to contribute to the sport,” Stevens said.

“My goal for the organisation is to help develop players who can compete at the highest level internationally.”

The academy is located in Priory, St Ann, in the area of Richmond Estate, and so far it caters to children from the ages of three to nine.

“We are focused on grassroots football,” he said.

“We currently just started preparations for the Milo under-12 competition starting July 30.”

Cannot do it alone

The former Arnett Gardens and Harbour View player said starting this academy has been a passion of his and so he has invested a lot into the organisation, but Stevens said he cannot do it alone.

“Well, so far, I’ve been the only one contributing to the academy, buying jerseys and boots for the players and giving up my family time, but it’s my passion but if anyone wants to help you can check out our Instagram page where we have links for people who would want to donate,” said Stevens.

The academy’s Instagram handle is @errolstevensfootballacademy.

“We need help with anything – balls, cones, we have a few kids who don’t have a lot of parental support (as) I’ve opened the doors to anyone to be a part of our academy. A simple thing as providing water for each session adds up over time.”

Stevens, who retired from playing football after an international career in Asia, said the academy is the only way he still takes part in football but there are a few things he misses from playing the game professionally.

“What I miss about playing sports professionally is scoring goals, the stadiums and the fans,” he said.

Stevens said he hopes to use his academy to help future Jamaican footballers get similar opportunities to the ones he got.