By Tilda Acorlor
West African Football Academy SC (WAFA SC) has taken a relevant step in strengthening its youth football development structure, as its coaches recently completed an intensive training workshop led by experienced football educator David Vecht.
Spanning three separate visits, Vecht engaged WAFA SC’s technical staff in a comprehensive 21-day program that combined classroom learning with on-field practical sessions.
Each day featured multiple modules, blending tactical theory, data analysis, and live demonstrations to deliver a well-rounded and immersive learning experience.
The workshop placed strong emphasis on modern attacking principles, introducing coaches to the use of data and video analysis to better understand how players can improve their goal-scoring output.
Central to this approach was the concept of enhancing “expected goals” focusing on creating high-quality chances rather than relying on speculative efforts.
Vecht also guided coaches through key positional play strategies, with particular attention to midfield structure, progressive passing, and coordinated attacking movements such as overlaps and underlaps.
Beyond theory, the sessions explored how these concepts can be translated into effective training exercises, ensuring practical implementation at the youth level.
Reflecting on the program, Vecht noted that its impact is already becoming evident in recent youth matches.
“There are clear signs of improvement in the way the teams approach attacking situations. The players are becoming more structured, more patient, and more intelligent in possession.” he said.
Vecht also observed a noticeable shift from long-ball football toward a more possession-based style built on short passing, coordinated movement, and improved tactical awareness.
This evolution aligns with WAFA SC’s broader objective of developing players capable of competing at higher levels, including opportunities in European football.
Vecht emphasised that achieving this vision requires not only talented players but also well-educated coaches supported by strong development systems.
“I think it’s very relevant in order to achieve WaFa’s goal, to improve players, help them to create better football players who maybe have a chance to go to Europe, and for good players, you need good coaches, and for good coaches, you need goods, programs to help them improve as coaches.” He said.
Although his direct involvement with players was limited, Vecht participated in select training sessions, offering on-pitch demonstrations and guidance.
His primary focus, however, remained on equipping coaches with the tools needed to nurture the next generation of talent.
Delivering a message to emerging coaches, Vecht stressed the importance of continuous learning and open-mindedness.
“Get skilled, and that means get education, coaching is a journey of constant improvement, find a coach educator or an experienced coach to help you improve and adapt to new ideas,” he added.
He also commended WAFA SC’s coaching staff for their willingness to challenge their perspectives and embrace modern methodologies.
“what I liked about the WAFA SC coaches is that they were very eager to learn, opened to new things, and curious to integrate it” he said.
With this initiative, WAFA SC continues to reinforce its reputation as one of Ghana’s leading football development institutions, investing not only in players but also in the coaches who shape their future.
About David Vecht
David Vetch is a sport consultant, with the Vetch Sports Consultancy, he is a versatile coach, teacher, and developer.
David is known for his broad and in-depth insights, with his background as a coach at clubs such as FC Utrecht, Sparta Rotterdam, RKC Waalwijk, and the KNVB, he has gained extensive experience in sports and has worked with numerous elite athletes and top talents.
He also worked at the Johan Cruyff College in Amsterdam as a teacher for elite athletes who combine their sport with their studies.
