On the invitation of founder and director of Ballaz Academy Andre’ Virtue, UEFA pro licence coach from Valencia, Spain, Xavi Tamarit will be in Jamaica for two weeks.

Xavi has over 15 years of coaching experience, having coached at the professional level in the English Premier League with Southampton FC; in La Liga with Valencia CF, Deportivo Alavés, and CD Leganés; in Greece with Aris FC and Levadiakos FC; and in Argentina with Estudiantes de La Plata, CA Independiente, and Vélez Sarsfield.

He has the experience of having participated in international competitions, such as the Champions League, UEFA Cup, Libertadores Cup, and South American Cup. He has also written two internationally recognised books about the methodology of training called Tactical Periodization and has given conferences around the world, invited by federations and universities from different countries.

Xavi’s visit is a part of the strengthening of the relationship between Ballaz Academy and The Next Generation Sports (TNGS), Valencia, Spain. The two organisations have in place a memorandum of understanding (MOU), which includes coaching development and education, player and coach exchanges, tours, camps, clinics, and workshops.

During his time here in Jamaica with Ballaz Academy they will be looking to evaluate and strengthen the academy’s overall philosophy; technical, tactical, and coaching capacities; as well as finalising the eight-year development plan that the academy is embarking on.

In response to Xavi’s visit, Virtue stated: “As we celebrate 20 years, we have much to give thanks for. We have achieved much and impacted the lives of many of Jamaica’s most talented football players at the primary, secondary, and club level. As we look ahead, however, we are committed to pioneering even more pathways for our players and coaches, and we are being more intentional about connecting with global stakeholders and partners.

“Xavi’s presence here is a part of that intentionality. First and foremost, he is a friend, then a coaching colleague with an amazing football mind, and we share a passion for youth football development and the opportunities that football can provide. It is an honour to have Xavi here sharing his love for football, Jamaica, and his experiences as a pro coach. As we continue to build our relationship with TNGS, we build pathways of opportunity for our players and by extension other Jamaican coaches and players.”

Having visited Jamaica in 2011 and 2012, Xavi shared that “being in Jamaica is a wonderful experience. Andre’ and the Ballaz family came to Spain in July and we were able to see the high level of play as well as character demonstrated by the players”.

“The coaching philosophy of Ballaz is also one that is impressive because it focuses not only on developing world-class footballers but great people. I know that this relationship started many years ago with Ivan Salazar, director of TNGS, and it is good to see that it is now at a place where Ballaz can benefit even more from what we have to offer,” Xavi was quoted as saying.

Since 2002 Ballaz International has been coaching the lives of their football players with not just goals of top-class football but also building the character of its participants in an atmosphere of love, family, and professional excellence.

“Our vision is to transform individuals, families, communities, the nation, and the world through love and football,” said Virtue.