By Malik Riaz Hai Naveed, FootballPakistan.Com
In a groundbreaking move for Pakistani football, Football Factory, a youth football academy led by Faizan Sameer and Coach Walid Javaid, is currently undergoing a training camp in Germany. This milestone marks the first time a Pakistani football club has been invited to train in Germany, with none other than Borussia Dortmund, one of Europe’s football giants, extending the invitation.
The Genesis of Football Factory
The journey of Football Factory began with a simple yet powerful vision: to develop and nurture young football talent in Pakistan. Faizan Sameer, the CEO, had previously worked with various football clubs but felt the need for an initiative that focused solely on youth development. His passion for the sport, combined with a desire to give back to the community, led him to establish Football Factory.
“I worked with a lot of other clubs before starting this venture,” Faizan explained during our interview. “But there was always this itch to do something more focused on development. That’s how Football Factory came into existence.”
Coach Walid Javaid, an integral part of the academy, emphasized the importance of genuine development over marketing gimmicks. “This isn’t just a marketing stunt; it’s about real development. Our goal is to give these young players the training and exposure they need to compete at higher levels.”
A Path Marked by Challenges and Determination
The road to establishing Football Factory was anything but smooth. Faizan recalled the early days when football wasn’t as accessible due to the lack of facilities and opportunities in Pakistan. He and his peers often had to make do with what was available.
“Back in 2006, when we started playing, it was mostly about finding places to play,” Faizan shared. “We saw a shift from playing regular football to futsal due to restrictions and lack of facilities. It wasn’t easy, but it kept the passion alive.”
Faizan’s journey took a pivotal turn when he was approached by 18, a local football club, to manage their team. His experience there further fueled his desire to pursue football more professionally. “I managed the club for three years, but deep down, I always wanted to do something on a larger scale,” he said.
Pursuing Professional Excellence
Recognizing the need for formal training and credentials, Faizan sought out opportunities to enhance his knowledge. After extensive research, he applied for a prestigious program with the UEFA Academy, in collaboration with the University of Lausanne in Switzerland.
“It was a rigorous selection process. They only select about 35 participants globally,” Faizan recalled. “I thought it was a long shot, but I went for it. After rounds of interviews, I was selected—it was a dream come true.”
However, this achievement came during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, which added layers of difficulty to his journey. “The first challenge was getting selected, and the second was figuring out the logistics during the pandemic. From finances to visa issues, it was tough, but somehow, we managed,” Faizan said with a sense of pride.
Breaking New Ground in Germany
The opportunity to train in Germany is a testament to the progress Football Factory has made in a relatively short period. The academy’s invitation by Borussia Dortmund is not only an honor but also a significant step forward for Pakistani football on the global stage.
“This trip to Germany is more than just training; it’s an experience that these young players will carry with them for the rest of their lives,” Faizan said. “They are being exposed to a different football culture, learning from some of the best in the world, and representing Pakistan in a positive light.”
Coach Walid echoed these sentiments, emphasizing how this experience is invaluable for the players’ growth. “They are not just learning technical skills but also absorbing the discipline, professionalism, and ethos of top European football,” he noted.
The Road Ahead
While the training camp in Germany is a significant achievement, Faizan and Walid see it as just the beginning. They have ambitious plans for the future of Football Factory, aiming to establish a sustainable pipeline of talent that can compete internationally. Their vision extends beyond just the technical development of players; they are equally focused on building character and instilling a professional mindset in their young athletes.
“We want to create not just good footballers but good individuals who can contribute to society in various ways,” Coach Walid remarked.
As Football Factory continues to grow, it stands as a beacon of hope for the future of football in Pakistan. The academy’s journey, highlighted by this historic trip to Germany, is a story of passion, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Conclusion
Football Factory’s training camp in Germany is a milestone that will undoubtedly inspire other clubs and academies in Pakistan. With leaders like Faizan Sameer and Coach Walid Javaid at the helm, the future of Pakistani football looks promising. As these young players train alongside some of Europe’s best, they carry with them the dreams of a nation and the potential to change the course of football in Pakistan.
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