GFA Approves 2025 Football Academy Licensing Regulations to streamline youth development

The Executive Council of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has approved the GFA Registered Football Academy Licensing Regulations 2025, a comprehensive framework aimed at regulating and standardising the operations of football academies across the country.The regulation, which takes immediate effect, outlines stringent requirements for clubs intending to operate as academies. Existing clubs using the term Academy in their names have been given a one-year grace period to meet the new criteria or risk being compelled to rebrand as Football Clubs if they fall short of compliance.Designed to promote professionalism and safeguard young talent, the regulations cater to boys and girls aged 6 to 18. They focus on holistic player development, incorporating lessons in fair play, health and fitness, laws of the game, leadership, and tactics in a safe and enjoyable environment.Notably, the regulation also extends to Beach Soccer and Futsal Academies and is aligned with the Childrens Act, FIFA guidelines, and GFAs Safeguarding Regulations. It sets out strict protocols for the authorisation of international travel involving academies and minors.Only legally recognised companies will be allowed to own and operate licensed academies, subject to a rigorous inspection process. Approved academies will be listed on the GFA website and must renew their licences annually to maintain compliance.In addition, all licensed academies will be required to participate in their respective district leagues to promote competition and development. The regulation also seeks to eliminate unlicensed and unsuitable establishments from Ghanas football system.The GFA is expected to hold a stakeholder meeting in the coming days and will soon open the application process for interested clubs and institutions. Read Full Story