About the Academy
Our story, our founder, our mission, and the philosophy that drives everything we do.
Football is a science. The day I moved to Egypt, I understood that it is not about dribbling and holding the ball — it is about intelligence, movement, and teamwork. That is what I teach here.— Francis Akwaffo, Founder & Academy President
Building Ghana’s Next Generation of Football Stars
The Francis Akwaffo Soccer Academy exists to unearth, develop, and polish young football talent from across the Ashanti Region and beyond. We provide a structured, professional, and nurturing environment where players aged 10 to 19 can grow into complete footballers — technically sound, tactically intelligent, physically prepared, and mentally resilient.
We are committed to feeding Ghana’s football pipeline at every level — from local clubs to the Black Stars.
Meet Francis Akwaffo
Asante Kotoko legend. International footballer. Academy founder.
Francis Akwaffo-Boateng, born 27 January 1987 in Suame, Kumasi, is one of Ghana’s most celebrated footballers of his generation. A gifted left winger known for his pace, flair, and delivery, Akwaffo became the darling of Asante Kotoko supporters during an illustrious career that spanned over a decade.
After establishing himself as one of Kotoko’s most exciting attacking talents, Akwaffo extended his career onto the international stage — playing in Egypt and Libya, and earning a brief stint in Germany with FSV Frankfurt. His time abroad transformed his understanding of football as a science — a philosophy that now underpins every session at the academy.
After retiring from professional football, Akwaffo followed in the footsteps of fellow Ghanaian legends Odartey Lamptey, Opoku Nti, and Awudu Issaka — choosing to give back to the game that shaped his life. In 2021, he founded the Francis Akwaffo Soccer Academy at Ahodwo-Daban, Kumasi, with one clear goal: to create a credible football factory that produces the next wave of Ghanaian stars.
Akwaffo also serves as president of the Great United Footballers Association (GUFA), where he advocates for higher standards of play and greater involvement of experienced players in the Ghana Premier League.
Career Highlights
Played for two clubs in the Ghana Premier League across an 11-year top-flight career. Became a fan favourite at Kotoko — nicknamed “Totti” by supporters.
Left Asante Kotoko for Egyptian football, where he gained his first international experience and developed a deeper understanding of the tactical and scientific side of the game.
A loan spell in the Libyan Premier League, further broadening his experience across North African football.
A brief but formative stint in Germany, where Akwaffo experienced European-level training standards and professionalism firsthand.
Retired from professional football and established the Francis Akwaffo Soccer Academy at Ahodwo-Daban, Kumasi, to develop the next generation of Ghanaian talent.
Our Training Philosophy
Everything we do is grounded in a scientific, player-centred approach to development — shaped by Akwaffo’s own international playing experience.
Technical Mastery
Players build a strong technical foundation — first touch, passing, dribbling, shooting, and set-pieces — through structured, progressive drills designed to develop muscle memory and in-game execution.
Tactical Intelligence
Football is a science. We teach players to read the game — understanding formations, positional play, transitions, pressing, and how to make the right decision under pressure at every phase.
Physical Development
Strength, speed, agility, and endurance are developed through a conditioning programme tailored to each player’s age and position — building athletic foundations that allow technique to shine.
Mental Resilience
Champions are built in the mind first. We develop players’ confidence, focus, and discipline — the mental qualities that separate good players from great ones in high-pressure match situations.
Team Spirit & Character
We mould not just footballers, but good people. Respect, discipline, hard work, and team spirit are values instilled from day one — qualities that will serve players both on and off the pitch.
Pathway to Excellence
Our best performing players are supported with pathways to higher-level competition — whether that’s the Ghana Premier League, regional tournaments, or exposure to professional club scouts.
Growing Every Season
A Closer Look at FA Academy
Ready to Be Part of the FA Academy Family?
Open to boys and girls aged 10 to 19. Enrol today and start your journey toward becoming a legend.