KOTA KINABALU: Jubilo Football Academy (JFA) is set to elevate grassroots football development in Sabah through a strategic management collaboration with the Sabah Football Association (SAFA).
The partnership was formalised following a meeting between SAFA’s Development and Technical Committee, led by chairman Rafie Datuk Robert, and Jubilo’s top management headed by its chairman, Syarulnizam Salleh Keruak.
Jubilo’s Chief Operating Officer, Saiful Azua Joe Datuk Golkhan, expressed optimism about the collaboration, highlighting its potential to strengthen youth football development in the state.
“It is our hope that through this collaboration, Jubilo can complement and support the efforts of Sabah FA in raising the standard of football in Sabah, particularly among the younger generation,” he said.
Joe added that the academy is currently focused on nurturing players aged between 7 and 16, with approximately 200 young athletes under its programme — positioning it as one of the most active grassroots football institutions in Sabah.
Beyond technical training, Jubilo emphasises holistic youth development, incorporating character building, teamwork, and leadership into its programmes.
“Self-discipline among our trainees is crucial — not only in terms of physical fitness, but also in maintaining proper diet and rest,” he noted.
Jubilo also welcomed greater participation from the private sector, calling on corporate partners to support its mission in elevating football standards while promoting healthy lifestyles among youth.
“We are exploring collaborations with sports attire brands, fitness organisations, nutrition companies, and other corporate partners to further strengthen our programmes,” Joe added.-pr/BNN
