MOUNT Pleasant Academy and Ballaz Academy signed off on a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at fostering the development and execution of a comprehensive grass roots and elite youth development plan.

This collaborative effort will focus on the holistic development of players and coaches, with the ultimate goal being the establishment of a feeder system for Mount Pleasant Academy as well as added growth opportunities for Ballaz Academy players.

The agreement outlines the commitment of Ballaz Academy to identify and present talented players for potential signing with Mount Pleasant Academy. The process will be conducted with the utmost consideration for the players’ well-being and in accordance with the wishes of the players’ parents or legal guardians, particularly in cases where the players are minors.

Additional objectives of the partnership include expanding the elite player pathway for Ballaz Academy. This will be achieved through joint hosting of games, tournaments, and other events to showcase talent and promote player and coaching exposure and development.

Andre Virtue, director of Ballaz Academy, said: “We are thrilled to formalise this partnership with Mount Pleasant Academy.

“This memorandum of understanding represents a significant step forward in our collective efforts in fostering the growth of football at the grass roots level and creating a pathway for young talent to flourish within the sport, as well as to expand the elite player pathway and provide invaluable opportunities for player and coaching development. We are committed to nurturing talent, promoting exposure, and creating a sustainable framework for the growth of football at the grass roots level,” he said.

By leveraging the expertise and resources of each participating organisation the MOU aims to create a sustainable framework for nurturing and honing the skills of aspiring footballers ad coaches.

“We are excited to formalise this partnership with Ballaz Academy as we collectively work towards advancing grass roots football development,” said Peter Gould, founder at Mount Pleasant Academy.

“This memorandum of understanding underscores our shared commitment to empowering young athletes and enhancing the overall football landscape. We look forward to the positive impact that this collaboration will have on the development of football talent in our community and beyond.”

The MOU represents a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to elevate football development in Jamaica and the region and is a testament to the collective dedication of all parties involved.