Real Madrid Football Academy in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, is a dream destination for young football enthusiasts. Established in 2019 through a partnership between the Rivers State Government and Real Madrid Football Club of Spain, this academy offers world-class training facilities and a unique blend of football and academic education. If you’re wondering how to join this prestigious academy, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What Makes Real Madrid Football Academy Special?
The Real Madrid Football Academy in Port Harcourt is not just another football academy. It’s a state-of-the-art facility designed to nurture young talents and prepare them for professional football careers. The academy boasts:
- A well-grassed football pitch, swimming pool, and basketball court.
- Classrooms, laboratories, hostels, and dining halls to ensure a balance between sports and academics.
- A partnership with Real Madrid Spain, which provides technical support, training methodologies, and equipment.
The academy has already admitted its first set of students in 2021 and continues to attract young talents from across Nigeria.
Eligibility Requirements
To join the Real Madrid Football Academy in Port Harcourt, you must meet the following criteria:
- Age: The academy accepts children between the ages of 5 and 17.
- Residency: While 70% of the slots are reserved for Rivers State indigenes, 30% are open to students from other states and even foreigners.
- Football Skills: Applicants must demonstrate exceptional footballing abilities during the screening process.
- Academic Performance: The academy also considers academic performance, as students are required to follow the Nigerian secondary school curriculum.
How to Register
The registration process for the Real Madrid Football Academy is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the state’s minister of work: Office of the Director of Administration, Rivers State Ministry of Sports, 4th Floor, Podium Block at the Rivers State Government Secretariat.
- Provide Personal Details: Enter the child’s full name, date of birth, state of origin, and other required information .
- Submit Guardian Information: Include the guardian’s name, contact details, and relationship with the child .
- Wait for Confirmation: After submitting the form, you’ll receive a confirmation message via email .
Screening Process
Once your application is accepted, the next step is the screening process. This involves:
- Aptitude Test: Candidates are required to take an aptitude test to assess their academic abilities .
- Football Trials: A practical screening is conducted at the Sharks Stadium in Port Harcourt to evaluate football skills, including dribbling, passing, and shooting .
- Physical Fitness Test: Candidates are also assessed for speed, agility, and stamina .
The screening process is rigorous but fair, ensuring that only the most talented and dedicated students are admitted .
School Fees and Scholarships
One of the most attractive features of the Real Madrid Football Academy is its affordability. Here’s what you need to know:
- Rivers State Indigenes: Students from Rivers State attend the academy free of charge, covering tuition, accommodation, and feeding .
- Non-Indigenes and Foreigners: Students from other states or countries are required to pay an annual fee, which covers training, accommodation, and medical care .
This fee structure ensures that talented children from all backgrounds have an opportunity to join the academy.
Life at the Academy
Life at the Real Madrid Football Academy is a blend of rigorous training and academic excellence. Students follow a structured schedule that includes:
- Football Training: Daily sessions focusing on technical skills, tactical awareness, and physical fitness .
- Academic Classes: Students study the Nigerian secondary school curriculum and are prepared for WAEC examinations .
- Extracurricular Activities: The academy also offers swimming, basketball, and other recreational activities .
The academy’s holistic approach ensures that students grow not just as athletes but also as well-rounded individuals.
Success Stories and Future Prospects
Since its inception, the Real Madrid Football Academy has been a beacon of hope for young footballers in Nigeria. The academy aims to produce the next generation of stars who will represent Nigeria on the global stage .
With its world-class facilities and partnership with Real Madrid Spain, the academy is well-positioned to achieve this goal. Many graduates are expected to join top clubs in Europe and beyond, following in the footsteps of Nigerian legends like Joseph Yobo and Finidi George .
Conclusion
Joining the Real Madrid Football Academy in Port Harcourt is a golden opportunity for young footballers to turn their dreams into reality. With its state-of-the-art facilities, rigorous training programs, and focus on academic excellence, the academy offers a unique platform for aspiring athletes.
If you or your child meets the eligibility criteria, don’t hesitate to apply. The journey to becoming a football star starts here!
For more information, visit the official website or contact the academy at [email protected] or call 08020588173.
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