Hope Academy Football Club in Rundu is appealing to businesses, organisations, and the public for support as it continues to develop young football talent.

Coach Jean-Claude Kalinda, the founder of Hope Academy, says the academy was established to keep children away from negative influences while using football to promote discipline, friendship, and personal development. Kalinda noted that the academy has been running for nearly seven years, growing from just eight players to around 60. He explained that he started the initiative to counter antisocial behaviour in the community, believing that bringing the children together through football can help solve this issue. He added that the focus is on the nation's future, as these young players could be the next top athletes representing the country at the World Cup, while playing together helps them dream big, make friends, and add value to society.

Coach Kalinda also outlined the major challenges facing the academy. He explained that they lack basic equipment such as soccer boots, training gear, and socks, and they do not have access to tap water at their training ground. Furthermore, transport is a major issue whenever they need to travel outside of Rundu. However, Kalinda maintained that they do not let these obstacles stop them, choosing instead to push forward and continue mentoring the children.

To address these needs, Coach Kalinda called on local enterprises and corporate partners to invest in the academy by providing training items like balls, small goalposts, and bibs. He pointed out that these companies sell products that the children consume, and supporting the academy with equipment would ultimately benefit the nation.

Hope Academy player Simwanza Peace stated that the shortage of equipment and clean drinking water makes it difficult for many young players to pursue their football ambitions. Peace shared that some children train barefoot because they do not own boots, which negatively affects their dreams of turning professional. He also mentioned that the academy currently has only three footballs for a large group of children who all need to play. Furthermore, he highlighted the lack of water at the venue, explaining that some players walk long distances to get there without carrying water, leaving them tired and dehydrated with nothing to drink.

Player Ganaseb Liandro shared that the academy has had a positive impact on his personal development. Liandro noted that being part of the team has helped him build his confidence, overcome shyness, improve his skills, and perform at his best level.

Hope Academy believes that, with the right support, more young people will have the opportunity to develop their talent, stay away from negative influences, and pursue football.ro