Coaches began assessing the nationwide pool of prospects through a two-day selection process running January 17-18. Candidates were required to complete a series of tests measuring physical fitness, endurance and football technique.
During skills evaluations, players were divided into groups for competitive matches, enabling coaches to gauge technical ability, game intelligence and competitive spirit.
At the end of the recruitment round, the academy plans to select about 25 players for its U13 squad. Those admitted will enter a seven-year development pathway aimed at producing professional footballers.
