Play Soccer Malawi officially opened as Kulemeka expresses satisfaction with turn out

Twenty-nine young footballers braved overnight rains to attend the opening of the Play Soccer Malawi Academy at Bingu National Stadium on Tuesday morning, with some travelling from as far as Area 25 to begin their football journey.

The impressive turnout of children under 12 demonstrated strong passion and commitment despite the challenging weather conditions, setting a promising tone for the newly launched academy.

FIFA Coach Educator Developer Patricio Kulemeka, who oversees Play Soccer Malawi programmes across 12 districts, expressed his satisfaction with the debut day. “I was impressed by the turnout, especially despite the bad weather,” he said.

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The organisation is expanding its reach in Lilongwe, moving into several communities including areas around Bingu Stadium, Kawale, Falls, and launching a street football programme for vulnerable children in Mtaya.

Speaking to the young players, Kulemeka emphasized that the academy’s mission extends beyond the pitch. The programme focuses equally on football and education, with a reward system designed to encourage excellence in both areas.

Children who perform well academically will receive support from international partners, while those who excel on the pitch, demonstrate good character, and succeed in the classroom will be awarded football boots and tracksuits.

Kulemeka encouraged the children to value their opportunity to train under qualified coaches, pointing to the success stories of former Play Soccer Malawi players. His own credentials add weight to this promise—as a respected coach and scout, he previously helped build Surestream Academy, one of Malawi’s top youth development programmes.

He also called on nearby communities to take advantage of the academy’s location at the modern Bingu National Stadium, noting that the programme is already well equipped with training materials to support player development.

Lilongwe District Youth Football Committee Chairperson John Mkisi addressed the young players with an inspiring message. “Work hard and dream big,” he told them, expressing hope that some would one day represent Malawi at the national team level. He promised full support from his committee.

The launch was attended by Play Soccer Malawi Bingu Stadium Coordinator Erik Chiputula, boys’ coach Kelvin Wahera, and girls’ coach Patricia Mnyaka. The technical team is set to expand as more coaches who recently completed the FAM D Coaching Course at Civo Stadium are expected to join when training continues tomorrow morning.