MONROVIA-The Believers Eastern Church has officially launched the Believers Football Academy, an initiative under its Serving God and Humanity mission.
By Christopher C. Walker 0777898224/0886723075 [email protected]
The academy aims to empower young people through sports and community development.
The launch, held at the Matadi Don Bosco Compound, marked the beginning of what the church calls a Community Transformation Project which will use football to shape lives, instill discipline, and create opportunities for children and youth.
According to church leaders, the project seeks not only to raise the next generation of football talent in Liberia but also to instill values such as teamwork, responsibility and respect.
“This academy is more than just about producing players; it’s about raising future leaders who will make positive impacts in society,” said Father Sachin Pakhre, Country Director of Believers Eastern Church.
“Through this initiative, we are combining faith, education, and sports to build strong communities.”
The academy will provide structured training, mentorship, and educational support to young athletes. It will also create platforms for talent identification, giving young Liberians a chance to pursue both academic and sporting excellence.
Father Pakhre’s Highlights Academy Vision
Father Sachin Pakhre, speaking at the ceremony, emphasized the importance of purpose, discipline and faith to transform lives.
He described the academy’s opening as “the birth of a bold dream” that brings together families, coaches, children, and the community.
Pakhre stated a vision for the next 20 years, saying, “We don’t just want to see Liberian players participating in football’s biggest stages, we want them competing. Winning. Leading. Inspiring. That vision starts now with belief, discipline, and the right support.”
He stressed that the academy is built on partnership with families and the community, and that it is a “safe space” to help youth avoid dangers like addiction and crime.
He pointed out that, “We believe in football. We believe in family. We believe in community. We believe in Liberia. We are Believers.”
“We call this Believers Football Academy for a reason. Because we believe. We believe in our youth. We believe in our country. And above all, we believe in the power of purpose, discipline, and faith to transform lives,’’ he continued.
“Today is more than just the opening of a football academy, it’s the birth of a bold dream. A dream that brings families, coaches, children, and the community together with one shared belief: Liberia can rise through football. And it starts right here,’’ Pakhre said.
“At Believers Football Academy, we have a vision that stretches far beyond the borders of this field. In the next 20 years, we don’t just want to see Liberian players participating in football’s biggest stages, we want them competing. Winning. Leading. Inspiring. That vision starts now with belief, discipline, and the right support. This academy is built on more than just coaching and goals, it’s built on partnership,’’ Pakhre intoned.
“We are also here to fight something deeper. We know the dangers our youth face addiction, crime, and hopelessness. But we also know the solution, direction, opportunity, and belief. This academy is a safe space, a powerful space—where children can grow, dream, and discover who they truly are. To the parents and guardians: your involvement matters. Your belief in your child, your encouragement, and your partnership with us are what make this work,’’ he further stated.
“To the community this is your academy, too. These children are your future leaders, athletes, and role models. Cheer for them. Mentor them. Be proud of them. And to the young players standing here today: this is your moment. Your journey. Your field of dreams. Train with passion. Respect your coaches. Work harder than you thought you could. Because one day, you just might be the one the world watches and it will all trace back to this very field,’’ he added.
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Kelvin Sebwe and Parents on the Academy
Former Liberian International Midfielder Kelvin Sebwe praised the academy, calling it an “eye-opener.” He noted that Liberia is home to many talented players who may not attend football school but have immense football potential.
“Today I am glad that the church can come up with this idea because this is what the children look up to in the slum communities,” Sebwe said.
He warned that “if the kids don’t take their education seriously, they will be dropped from the academy.”
The Parents also welcomed the initiative. Emmanuel Toles, speaking on behalf of families, thanked the church for investing in their children’s future, stating, “We are happy that our kids will have time to learn about football and also get education.”
As part of the launch ceremony, the first fifty kids enrolled received free jerseys and football boots.
The Believers Eastern Church also announced plans to expand the program with two additional academies in the Doe Community and Lakpazee Community. The church is calling on parents, guardians and community leaders to support the initiative.
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