About Baciqi Football Academy
Building young athletes through structured training and genuine passion for the game
Our Foundation
Baciqi started in 2016 when three UEFA-licensed coaches in South London noticed a gap in quality youth football training. Children aged 5-14 needed more than weekend matches. They required structured skill development, tactical understanding, and physical conditioning appropriate for their age groups.
We established our first training ground near Tooting Common with 18 children. The approach was straightforward: small groups of 8-10 players, age-specific drills, and coaches who understand child development. Within two years, we expanded to three training locations across South London, working with 120 young players.
What We Do
Our programme runs year-round with sessions three times weekly. Each group trains for 90 minutes, focusing on technical skills, tactical awareness, and age-appropriate physical development. We maintain a 1:10 coach-to-player ratio, ensuring each child receives proper attention and feedback.
Training sessions follow the FA Youth Development curriculum, adapted to individual group needs. Six-year-olds work on basic ball control and spatial awareness. Thirteen-year-olds develop positional play and game reading skills. All groups include match scenarios, but technique comes first.
Our Approach
We work with children who want to improve their football skills, whether they aim for professional academies or simply enjoy playing. The focus remains on proper technique, understanding the game, and developing athletic abilities safely.
Each player receives quarterly assessments covering technical skills, tactical understanding, physical development, and teamwork. Parents get written feedback and can discuss their child's progress during scheduled consultations. This system helps us adjust training plans and set realistic development goals.
Since 2016, 34 of our players have joined professional academy programmes at clubs including Crystal Palace, Millwall, and AFC Wimbledon. However, most children train with us to become better players while enjoying team sports and staying active.
Training Principles
- Skill Development Technical training based on FA guidelines, progressing from basic ball control to advanced techniques
- Age-Appropriate Methods Training intensity and complexity match physical and cognitive development stages
- Individual Progress Each player develops at their own pace with personalised feedback and adjusted challenges
- Team Integration Learning to play within a team structure while developing individual capabilities
Current Programme
8 coaches with UEFA B or higher licences
3 training locations across South London
140 active players aged 5-14 years
Year-round sessions including holiday camps
Quarterly assessments for all participants