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In an exclusive interview, Ing. Yankuba Jusu Tarawally, popularly known as Lux Cee Note and Chairman of Star Sport Academy, shared the remarkable journey of one of Sierra Leone’s fastest-growing football academies.

Founded in January 2022, Star Sport Academy was born out of a desire to empower youth through football and create professional pathways for talented players. “We established the academy to help young boys with football talent pursue their dreams,” said Ing. Tarawally. “Football is more than a game, it’s a career and a life-changing opportunity.”

The academy currently operates in three age categories: Under-12, Under-15, and Under-17. Aside from football training, the academy also funds the education of its Under-12 and Under-15 players, ensuring they gain academic knowledge alongside sports development. Star Sport has also provided four clubhouses in Freetown to accommodate its players.

Their young talents have already gained international exposure. The Under-15 team has participated in tournaments in Senegal, Turkey, and Guinea. More recently, the Under-17 players traveled to Germany, Turkey, Russia, and Armenia for trials. While they didn’t meet the European standard at this stage, Ing. Tarawally described the experience as a vital learning opportunity that helped them understand the professional level of play abroad. “They are back with renewed motivation and hunger,” he said.

In a bold strategic move, the academy purchased a Division One club called Dollarosa and rebranded it as Star Sport Academy. With their Under-17 players, they competed in the 2024 National Division One league, went unbeaten, did not concede a single goal, and won every match. Their dominance led to a successful promotion to the Sierra Leone Premier League, where they are currently placed 7th on the table.

Tarawally emphasized that the academy sees football as both a sport and a business. “We are building a professional system that creates wealth, opportunity, and a future for our boys,” he said.

As part of their broader vision, Star Sport recently organized a Youth Detection Tournament in Bo Town, attracting over 40 international football agents and clubs from across West Africa. The aim was to scout raw talent and provide exposure for young footballers.

Star Sport Academy has also expanded its recruitment across West Africa and is currently supporting the development of players from the region. According to Tarawally, eight players from the academy are expected to sign professional contracts with top European clubs later this year.

With its holistic approach to development, investment in talent, and international exposure, Star Sport Academy is fast becoming a powerhouse for football development in Sierra Leone, nurturing dreams and producing the next generation of stars.
Credit: STAR SPORT ACADEMY MEDIA