Ryan BachooLead Editor - Newsgathering
German football club Borussia Dortmund will officially launch the BVB International Academy – Caribbean on Saturday, July 26.
The initiative is being led by Athletes and Fans Sports Village and its founders Colin Rocke, Martin Lashley and Chief Executive Officer Andre Lawrence. Damon Leon will serve as Head of Marketing and Commercial for the project.
The academy will adopt Borussia Dortmund’s training methodology, which is known globally for producing footballers such as Marco Reus, Jude Bellingham, Mario Götze, Jadon Sancho, Youssoufa Moukoko and Erling Haaland. The programme focuses on technical development, mental preparation, and tactical awareness.
Chief Executive Officer Andre Lawrence said the Caribbean possesses strong athletic potential, and the region now has access to a proven youth development system. He said the academy will provide a structured pathway for student-athletes seeking professional football careers.
Representatives from Borussia Dortmund are scheduled to arrive in Trinidad on Friday, July 25, 2025, ahead of the academy's launch.
As part of the launch, a one-day Under-17 Invitational Tournament will take place on Sunday, July 27, 2025, at the CIC Grounds in Port of Spain. Six invited teams will compete in the inaugural BVB/Gatorade Under-17 Challenger Cup.
The BVB International Academy – Caribbean aims to bridge European football standards with Caribbean talent by offering elite-level coaching and player development. The programme will integrate Borussia Dortmund’s training systems into the region’s youth football structure.
Organisers said the academy will focus not only on athletic performance but also on education and character building, allowing young athletes to prepare for both professional sports and academic advancement.
The launch marks Borussia Dortmund’s first official youth academy presence in the Caribbean.