International Federation of Football Academies (IFAF): A Global Sports Vision for Developing Academies and Nurturing Talent

Sports are not merely competition or entertainment; they are a powerful tool for development, peace, and communication among nations. In today’s rapidly changing world, football—the world’s most popular sport—has become a means of creating positive impact that goes far beyond stadiums and into communities.
From this perspective, the International Federation of Football Academies (IFAF) was established as the first global entity connecting sports academies under a professional umbrella dedicated to talent development, tournament organization, and the enhancement of sports investment.

The International Federation of Football Academies is not just a sports organization; it is a comprehensive project that links sports with economics, talent with innovation, and vision with global impact.
Founded in 2015 through a Saudi initiative, the Federation received recognition from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 2016. Since then, IFAF has achieved major accomplishments locally and internationally, solidifying its position as a global reference in the development of sports academies.

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Introduction to This Book

This book presents a complete and integrated vision of the International Federation of Football Academies (IFAF)—from its founding to its achievements and future ambitions.
Within these pages, readers will find a detailed analysis of the Federation’s vision, mission, goals, challenges, accomplishments, as well as its programs and ongoing initiatives.

This is not merely a guide about the Federation; it is a roadmap for developing sports academies globally, offering inspiring lessons for anyone seeking to create positive impact in the world of sports.

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About the Author

Name: Captain Ishaq Bin Siraj Bin Shams Al-Din
Nationality: Saudi
Location: Makkah Al-Mukarramah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Experience: Former professional football player with Al-Wehda Club for over 12 years
Founder: International Federation of Football Academies (IFAF)

Captain Ishaq is a distinguished figure in sports development, academy advancement, and talent nurturing. His ambitious vision has elevated sports professionalism, as he successfully organized numerous local and international tournaments and launched pioneering initiatives to support sports academies worldwide.

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Vision & Mission

Vision

To establish the International Federation of Football Academies as the world’s leading reference for the development of sports academies and the promotion of sports as a tool for economic and social development.

Mission

• Talent Development: Build an integrated system that develops players from early age groups to professional levels.

• Tournament Organization: Provide a competitive global environment that enhances player performance and academy growth.

• Sports Investment: Utilize sports as an economic tool that supports long-term sustainability.

• Promoting Peace: Organize international tournaments that enhance understanding among cultures.

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Strategic Objectives

Global Development of Sports Academies

• Deliver innovative training programs.

• Support local and international academies in strengthening infrastructure.

Promoting Cultural Understanding Through Sports

• Organize international tournaments that bring together diverse cultures.

• Support exchange programs for players and coaches.

Achieving Financial Sustainability

• Attract sponsors and investors.

• Provide economic solutions for emerging academies.

Tournament & Championship Development

• Launch local, regional, and global competitions for youth categories.

• Organize specialized tournaments for girls and young women.

Protecting Intellectual Property

• Register curricula, methods, and logos as international trademarks.

• Develop legal systems that safeguard academy rights.

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Chapter One: The Federation’s Origins

Foundation

• Concept: The idea emerged in 2009, initiated by Captain Ishaq Bin Siraj Shams Al-Din.

• Execution: Officially established in 2015 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

• International Recognition: Recognized by the International Olympic Committee in 2016.

First Official Statement

“The International Federation of Football Academies is a global umbrella dedicated to excellence in everything related to sports academies. We are here to serve sports and athletes.”

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Chapter Two: International Journeys & Achievements

Founder’s International Visits

European Visits

• Signing partnership agreements with academies in Spain and Germany.

• Attending international conferences on youth development.

Asian Visits

• Creating partnerships with academies in Japan and South Korea.

• Conducting workshops for coach development.

African Visits

• Supporting youth talent discovery programs in countries such as Nigeria and South Africa.

Achievements

• Organizing 25 international tournaments across Asia, Europe, and Africa.

• Launching certified training programs for coaches and administrators in more than ten countries.

• Hosting global tournaments in Saudi Arabia.

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Chapter Three: Programs & Projects

Training Programs

Youth Development Program

• Age Group: 6 to 18 years

• Goal: Enhance technical and physical skills

Coaches Development Program

• Workshops and accredited certifications

• Goal: Improve the overall training quality within academies

“Future Champions” Program

• Aim: Discover and develop rising talents

Future Projects

Academies City

• Location: Jeddah

• Goal: Establish a global center hosting multiple sports academies

Digital Platform

• Name: IFAF Connect

• Goal: Facilitate international communication and cooperation between academies

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Chapter Four: Tournaments & Competitions

Academies World Cup

• Age Category: Under 18

• Location: Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Regional Championships

• Gulf Academies Cup

• Arab Youth Academies Cup

Women’s Competitions

• International Women’s Academies Championship

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Chapter Five: Challenges & Solutions

Challenges

• Limited funding for new academies

• Insufficient international cooperation

Solutions

• Establish a financial support fund for academies

• Conduct workshops to unify global standards

• Strengthen partnerships with major sponsors

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Chapter Six: Conclusion

The International Federation of Football Academies (IFAF) stands as a leading model in the sports world, combining athletics with investment and social development.
With its ambitious vision and innovative programs, the Federation strives to leave a lasting mark on the global football landscape.

“Together, we build the future of football.”