The Barbados Football Association (BFA), working with Concacaf, has introduced the Bigger Game Academy to 25 primary schools as part of an effort to combine grassroots football training with life-skills development. The initiative opened with a two-day training session for coaches at the BFA Technical Centre in Wildey on 7 October 2026.
Technical Director Philip Marin explained that participating schools would select groups of boys and girls for a 10-week programme covering football fundamentals and social skills. An introductory activity day was planned for 130 children from the schools, using 10 stations featuring passing, dribbling and small-sided games. Coaches also received guidance on coaching methods and safeguarding.
BFA President Randy Harris and General Secretary Nicholas Branker welcomed the programme as an opportunity to make a positive contribution to children’s development beyond the football field. Following school-based sessions and assessments, the initiative is expected to culminate in a festival bringing together participants from all 25 schools.