Western Serbia Football Association opens first sports worker academy

The Football Association of Western Serbia has launched the first Academy for the Training of Sports Workers in Serbian football. Located in Vrnjačka Banja, the initiative aims to address an alarming shortage of qualified professional staff within clubs, districts, and regional associations.

Supported by UEFA through its grassroots football program, the academy offers a curriculum consisting of five modules and 40 hours of instruction. The program covers essential topics including football organization, competition systems, disciplinary rules, match security, player registration, transfers, and public relations. A specific focus is placed on grassroots football, working with children, and club development.

General Secretary Darko Bradonjić emphasized that the academy is designed to provide practical knowledge, ensuring that sports workers can effectively navigate administrative requirements, deadlines, and documentation. President Nebojša Živanović noted that the program provides a systemic way for those responsible for organizing matches and club operations to acquire necessary expertise. The goal is for the academy to serve as a permanent institution for continuous professional development within the sport.