Edmonton Fusion welcomes its new Academy Director.

Edmonton Fusion welcomes its new Academy Director.

In its continued growth in youth development, Edmonton Fusion FC now has a new Academy Director. Another step forward for the community club.

Having been at the club for two seasons already and responsible for the Pro Soccer Training program, Edmonton Fusion FC has named Paul Addo as its new Academy Director. The Edmonton Fusion academy began in 2018 with its French-only pre-academy. This “Soccer en français” program has actually allowed Edmonton Fusion FC to be the main reference in this sector in Alberta.

“The launch of the Pro Soccer Training program in early 2022 was intended to elevate the professional side of the club in terms of more advanced and competitive training for youth. Paul’s arrival as director will bring a new dimension to the academy,” says Edmonton Fusion FC president Joris Desmares-Decaux. “His experience and background as a former professional player will allow the club’s academy to develop and help young people who want to perform like reaching university or even professional levels,” he continues.

Paul Addo will be supported in his tasks by the technical director of Edmonton Fusion FC, Job Lilango. “The Edmonton Fusion now has two former professionals in key positions to ensure quality development for its programs. This will benefit the players and the community” concludes the club president.

Giving youth the opportunity to move towards their goals

For the new academy development director, this role is a logical extension of his career. “Soccer has been my life since childhood and it has always been my dream to be a part of it in some capacity after I retire,” says Paul Addo. “My vision for the academy is to demonstrate my passion for soccer, fitness, health and overall wellness by training, coaching and mentoring soccer players and to build a team that every player will be proud to be a part of. The youth will be part of a team that will allow them to express themselves, gain confidence and improve their skills. We will work together to achieve their goals,” concludes the new director.

An impressive background

Originally from Ghana, Paul Addo has played professionally for over 10 years. The player, a former defender, began his professional career at the age of 15 in his native country. The Accra native represented his country in the U17 category at the African Cup of Nations and the 2007 FIFA World Cup in South Korea, where he was named captain. The Ghanaian national team finished 3rd and 4th respectively in these two tournaments. In Ghana, Paul Addo played for Bechem Chelsea FC.

The new director of Edmonton Fusion Academy then continued his professional career in Europe, more precisely in Norway, where he played for 10 years in the top league of the country in 4 different clubs: Lov-Ham, Odds Ballklubb, Strømmen and FK Bryne.