• WE’RE COMMITTED TO SUPPORTING MORE NIGERIAN PLAYERS THROUGH FCV, SAYS OYEBODE

Ann Dyte, Chief Executive Officer of FCV International Football Academy, has underscored the importance of Nigeria to the global football industry, praising the country’s abundant and undeniable talent.

Reflecting on the academy’s journey, Dyte explained that (FCV began as a platform in 2000)? to help young players showcase their football CVs online. “Back then, there weren’t many opportunities for players to present themselves. So, we created a space where they could be seen,” she said. As interest from football clubs grew, FCV evolved to host trial days, which later expanded into football camps. (By 2007, the academy was formally established as FCV Academy.)?

Now an international institution, FCV started with British players but has since welcomed talent from across the globe. “We’re proud to bring players to the home of the Premier League. It sets us apart,” Dyte noted.

As a not-for-profit organisation, FCV reinvests every penny into its operations. In 2022, the academy relocated to Grace Demeanor Park, a move Dyte described as a major step forward. “We’re fortunate to have an owner who believes in growth and development.”

Nigeria, she said, has been central to FCV’s success. “Nigeria is our biggest source of exceptional young footballers. We’ve built strong relationships with Nigerian families over the years. While I haven’t visited personally, our coaching staff frequently travels to Nigeria, and I’m in constant contact with Nigerian parents via WhatsApp.”

Dyte emphasised that FCV’s commitment goes beyond football. “We focus on education because parents understand the importance of having a backup plan. We help players prepare for life beyond football, and that’s one of our greatest strengths.”

She also praised the character of Nigerian students. “They’re respectful, polite, and full of joy. They have big appetites, yes, but they’re a pleasure to host. You can hear them, see them—they’re vibrant and happy. Nigerian parents want the best for their children, and we’re proud of the trust they place in us.”

FCV offers elite football training led by UEFA A-licensed coaches, including former Premier League player Jack Hobbs. The academy also partners with Loughborough College and University to provide world-class education. “We combine top-tier football with genuine care. Our pastoral team, led by Katie, ensures the boys feel at home. We’re strict when needed, but always supportive.”

Dyte was candid about the academy’s philosophy. “We don’t promise Premier League contracts. That wouldn’t be honest. We promise to give every boy the best chance to succeed. Development varies greatly between ages 15 and 18, and we respect that journey.”

She acknowledged the financial challenges of running such a comprehensive programme. “We don’t outsource accommodation. Every boy is cared for individually. Rising costs and government pressures have led to price adjustments, but we remain committed to offering value. As CEO, it’s my responsibility to ensure sustainability.

“We’re a not-for-profit organisation, but it’s my responsibility to ensure that everything runs effectively,” said Ann Dyte, CEO of FCV International Football Academy. “That’s why I believe we offer excellent value for what we charge.”

Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer of Dynaspro Sports Promotion, Oluseyi Oyebode, a long-time partner of FCV International Football Academy, has reaffirmed his commitment to helping more Nigerian players access opportunities through the UK-based institution.

“The journey began in 2012 during a tournament at KeeleUniversity,” he recalled. “FCV came for showcase matches, and we had extensive discussions with their manager at the time, Martin Harris. They saw the potential in Nigerian players, and that’s how our relationship started.”

Since then, the partnership has flourished. “We’ve built trust over the years and helped many students grow into successful individuals. Some have earned scholarships abroad, while others continue to pursue professional football careers. What we’ve achieved is the integration of education and football—that missing link that has changed lives.”

Oyebode emphasised the importance of combining academics with sports. “I’m who I am today by the grace of God, and because I had the chance to play football and go to school. Many Nigerian ex-footballers struggle today due to a lack of education. Those who managed to balance both are thriving. That’s why I was determined to make a difference.”

He believes talent exists beyond the streets. “Many students in high-profile schools have football talent, but they don’t lose it because their parents don’t support it. They’re pushed toward academics alone. I’m a living example—had I not followed my passion, I might have ended up as an accountant. But I chose football, and here we are.”

The results speak for themselves. “We’ve never had issues with misbehaviour or crises. Our students are well-behaved, passionate, and many have gone on to achieve great things. FCV nurtures the future of the average student in a structured, disciplined environment.”

On development, Oyebode stressed patience and hard work. “Football is a process. The UK offers the best structure for player development. It doesn’t happen overnight. Whether a player is naturally gifted or trained, hard work is essential. The stars we admire today—Messi, Ronaldo—weren’t finished products when discovered. They had to grow.”

Interestingly, Dyte highlighted FCV’s long-standing partnership with Mr. Ourgy L and his company, Diners Pro, which has consistently delivered top-tier talent from Nigeria. “We’ve worked together for many years, and we trust Diners Pro to bring us the best players. Despite financial instability in Nigeria at times, we always find a way to support the right players—those who meet our coaches’ standards.”

She explained that FCV regularly visits Nigeria, including trips last year, where selected boys were invited to the UK on trial to assess their fit within the academy. “We call it a ‘freebie’—a chance for them to experience our environment and for us to evaluate their potential. Nigeria has consistently been our strongest source of talent.”

Scholarships, Dyte noted, are available but selective. “If a player stands out—not just in skill, but in mentality and attitude—there’s always a chance for a scholarship. We do run scholarship camps, but they’re reserved for truly special players. We have to balance our resources carefully.”

FCV’s core offering is a blend of football and education, which Dyte believes resonates strongly with parents. “Our flagship programme is the two-year BTEC in Sports Performance, which provides UCAS points and a pathway to university. Students join in September, return home for Christmas, and complete the programme by May.”

The academy has expanded its academic offerings to include A-levels, recognised globally, and a degree programme in partnership with Loughborough University, renowned for its excellence in sports education. “These programmes open doors to higher education and professional development,” Dyte said.

In addition to academic tracks, FCV offers an English language course, primarily for non-English speakers, and elite football training programmes ranging from two weeks to six months. “These intensive football-only programmes are popular and run year-round, except for a two-week break over Christmas and New Year.”

During the summer, FCV hosts camps lasting two to eight weeks, preparing for the return of full-time students in September. Dyteencouraged parents to consider sending their children to a camp before committing to long-term enrolment. “It’s important that the boys experience life here first. We want them to feel comfortable and confident before making a full commitment.”

Parental involvement is a key part of FCV’s philosophy. “Parents have full access to staff—and to me. I stay in regular contact with several parents. We promise to make your son a better footballer, provide him with a solid education, and care for him as you would.”

FCV enforces curfews and monitors student movement to ensure safety. “We treat them like our own sons. If a player is injured, our physio contacts the parents immediately. We create care plans when needed and keep families informed. That level of pastoral care is what sets us apart.”

Dyte concluded, “Not every child will become a professional footballer, but every child will be cared for, educated, and given the best chance to succeed. That’s what makes us different—we care.”

Sharing a success story, Oyebode said: “There’s a boy we’ve worked with since he was seven. His father did everything to get him into FCV. Today, he’s in the first squad and plays like Iniesta. We’re excited about his future.”

Oyebode also highlighted the importance of the environment. “Talent must be nurtured in the right setting. FCV provides that—whether in football or other life paths. It’s about consistent effort and growth.”

Regarding affordability, he explained FCV’s flexible payment options. “They offer installment plans, which help parents manage costs. Yes, it’s in the UK, and you spend in pounds, but if you’re determined to invest in your child’s future, the value is undeniable. Some of our students are now FIFA-licensed agents, physiotherapists, and sports business professionals.”

He added, “We’ve built something meaningful from grassroots efforts. Anyone can do it if they’re passionate and committed.”

On corporate social responsibility (CSR), Oyebode said, “Many of the students here came through CSR initiatives and scholarship programmes. After trials, selected players are given near-free access to FCV. That’s how we brought many here this year. For those who can’t afford it, there’s still a window of opportunity.”

Looking ahead, he revealed plans for 2026. “We’re working on a two-week programme in Lagos and Abuja during Easter. Discussions are ongoing, and by God’s grace, we’ll make it happen. We’re expecting about 20 kids to join us.”

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