Structure and operation of a football academy and its impact on sports careers

This study analyses the impact of the structure and operation of the St. Louis Academy of Union Sportive de Sèmè-Kraké (USSK) on its sporting performance and the careers of its young players. Using a mixed-methods approach (questionnaires and interviews), the results show that USSK stands out for its rigorous internal organization, comprehensive support, and effective talent identification policy. However, despite sporting successes and some international placements, the center remains limited by a lack of post-training follow-up, financial constraints, and the absence of a coherent national policy to support talent. The study concludes that structural reforms are necessary to better realize the potential of young players trained in Beninese academies.