As Coach Wycliff of Joiner Sports Academy, I’ve always believed in the power of football to change lives. Our academy isn’t just about playing the game; it’s about creating opportunities for children to learn, grow, and achieve what I once dreamed of—becoming a professional footballer. Growing up, I had ambitions of playing in Europe, but after a serious knee injury, my dream came to a halt. For a while, it was tough to accept that my journey in football wouldn’t go as planned. But as I watched kids play, I realized that my dream didn’t have to end with me. I could still fulfill it by helping these young players reach professional levels through coaching.
That’s what inspired me to start Joiner Sports Academy. My vision was to create a platform where kids could develop their skills, be nurtured, and find a professional pathway in football. There’s so much untapped talent out there, and all they need is a platform like ours. With the right training, support, and guidance, these kids can excel—not just in football, but in life as a whole. My passion for the game and the drive to see these kids succeed keeps me going every day.
One of the greatest opportunities we’ve been part of is the AGOAL League. Before it started, we had to wait for rare tournaments or struggle to arrange friendly matches. It wasn’t easy. But since joining the league, the progress has been incredible. We started with an under-9 team, and now, those same kids are playing at the under-13 level, soon to move up to under-15. The competition has been a game-changer, helping our players grow and giving them a platform to shine.
What I also love about the AGOAL League is how it has opened doors for exchange programs with other teams and coaches. Our kids are now more engaged, learning new skills, and building friendships through football. But perhaps one of the most impactful aspects has been the feeding program. Many of these kids come from challenging backgrounds, and knowing they have a meal after a game or practice brings peace of mind—not just to them but to us coaches as well. It’s taken a huge weight off our shoulders, allowing us to focus more on their development without worrying about how to provide for their basic needs.
Being part of AGOAL League has truly been a blessing. It’s given our kids a chance to grow, not only as players but as individuals. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved, and even prouder of the kids who work hard every day to chase their dreams. As I continue this journey, I remain hopeful and excited about what the future holds—for them, for the academy, and for football as a whole.
AGOAL League to the world! We’re proud to be part of something bigger, something that’s changing lives, one goal at a time.