Africa-Press – Rwanda. In a groundbreaking step that signals a new era in grassroots volleyball development, Police VC became the first Rwandan volleyball team to open its own youth academy.
The academy, which caters both boys and girls, will be based at Lycée de Kigali (LDK) in Rugunga, as a result of the two parties’ partnership aimed at talent development in volleyball at the school.
The official unveiling took place on Thursday, June 26, at the school premises.
The launch aligns with a recent directive issued by the local volleyball governing body (FRVB) requiring all first division teams to register with affiliated youth academies ahead of the 2025/26 season. The goal is to ensure long-term sustainability through structured talent development at the grassroots level.
“This is more than just a partnership—it’s an investment in Rwanda’s sporting future. Our aim is to raise disciplined, committed, and skilled players who will go on to represent the club and the country with pride,” said Police VC Secretary-General Supt. Diane Ntakirutimana.
The academy’s formation underscores the club’s leadership in sports development. It is the first club in the country to establish its own structured youth training program, designed to nurture young athletes into elite-level players.
This initiative ensures a consistent pipeline of homegrown talent feeding both the club’s senior team and national selections.
The boys’ team will be coached by Yves Iradukunda, while Jean de Dieu Masumbuko will take charge of the girls’ team. Both coaches, who currently act as assistants at Police VC senior teams, are expected to bring professional experience and technical depth to the academy.
LDK Principal Brother Jean Imfurayase welcomed the partnership with enthusiasm, calling it a win for both education and the sport in general.
“We are honored that Police VC selected Lycée de Kigali as the home of this academy,” he said. “We are fully committed to supporting these young athletes as they grow both academically and athletically.”
FRVB President Raphael Ngarambe commended Police VC for being the first team to implement the federation’s academy directive, highlighting the club’s ongoing leadership in volleyball development.
“Police VC continues to raise the bar high in Rwandan volleyball,” said Ngarambe. “This academy is a game-changing move that sets the standard for others to follow. We deeply appreciate your commitment to nurturing young talent.”
As part of the launch, Police VC provided the academy with essential training equipment, including jerseys for both girls and boys, balls, and nets—to ensure that the young athletes have the tools they need to succeed from the very beginning.
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