From Passion to Purpose: The Story of the International Ballers Academy

Speaking to Ibrahim, founder of International Ballers Academy, we spoke about how he got where he is today, from the start, talking about the challenges and the opportunities he’s had throughout the year.

(Image credit to International Ballers Football Academy)

For Ibrahim, football is more than just a sport, it is a foundation for growth, discipline, and community. As a devoted Liverpool FC fan, he channelled his passion into building a football academy that focuses not only on developing talent but also shaping character in younger players. 

“I’d say football is life” Ibrahim says. “It’s always been a huge part of who I am, and I’ve used that passion to help guide the younger generation and teach important life values.”

Beginnings:The academy journey began in the summer of 2019 when Ibrahim started offering voluntary coaching sessions that began as small one-to-one and group training, which then grew into something more structured, driven by his long-standing ambitions for how teams and organisations are built from the ground up.

However, the early stages were not without challenges. Like many grassroots initiatives, the academy faced challenges like limited exposure, the pressure of starting something new and fear of rejection. Despite this, Ibrahim stayed committed to his vision, slowly building confidence and community support.

A different approach to development:

What makes the IBF Academy different?The academy's strong emphasis on detailed communication and connection makes it particularly unique. While technical ability is a key focus, equal importance is placed on creating a supportive environment for both players and families.

“We make sure everyone connected to the academy feels involved” Ibrahim explains. “Parents are kept informed, and players receive honest, constructive feedback. It’s about building trust as much as it is about building skill.”

Currently catering to players aged 14 to 18, the academy creates a culture where young athletes are encouraged to express themselves, ask questions and take ownership of their development.

Beyond the pitch:Training sessions are built around a lead by example philosophy with players learning through active participation and guidance but development doesn't stop when training ends.

Off the pitch, players remain connected through a monitored group where they discuss tactics, analyse football matches, and learn how to communicate effectively. This approach shows that players are able to develop and grow not just on the pitch but off the pitch as individuals.

“It’s important that they understand football, but also themselves,” Ibrahim says. “Confidence, communication, and mindset are just as important as technical ability.”

Learning from the best:A major milestone for the academy was coming across the opportunity to work with Bukayo Saka. The experience was made possible through Ibrahim’s network within the game, leading to an invitation to take part in a coaching program.

Describing the experience, Ibrahim highlights Saka's humility and professionalism- “He was exactly how you’d expect, calm, grounded, and genuinely interested in inspiring young players” he says. 

For players, the session provided valuable insights into the demands of elite football. A Q&A segment allowed them to engage directly with Saka, gaining first-hand advice on discipline, mindset, and the standards required at the highest level.

Looking ahead:As the academy continues to grow, Ibrahim's ambitions remain focused on expansion and impact plans being in place to bring in wider age groups and further development of the program, with a long-term aim of nurturing players who could potentially progress into the professional game.

However, success for Ibrahim is not defined solely by producing professional footballers, but rather lies in the personal growth of every individual who goes through the academy.

His advice to any aspiring players is “Believe in yourself, work every day to improve, and don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s. Everyone has their own path.”

Reflecting on the journey so far, Ibrahim points to the academy's launch day as a defining moment, a reminder of how far things have come.

“When I look back at where we started and where we are now, it’s been an incredible journey” he says, “But this is only the beginning.”

Want to see more of the IBF Academy? Make sure to follow them on Instagram! @ibfacademy

Article written by Nailah Gajia