LUFOY & Lola Sports Player Pathway - To The Pro’s Partnership
New Soccer Partnership Offers Arkansas Players a Pathway to the Pros in Ireland
Central Arkansas, USA – In an exciting development for youth soccer in Central Arkansas, a groundbreaking international partnership has been formed between a local soccer academy Lufoy Academy and the prestigious FC LOLA - LOLA Sports LTD in Ireland. This collaboration will create a direct player pathway from academy-level soccer in Arkansas to professional and semi-professional opportunities in Ireland.
Through this partnership, players in Central Arkansas will have the opportunity to try out locally for selection into a representative team that will travel to Ireland in Summer (May/June/July) 2026. Once abroad, the selected players will train under UEFA-licensed coaches, compete against Irish academy, semi-pro, and professional teams, and be evaluated by scouts from Ireland’s First and Second Division professional clubs.
“This is more than just a tour; it’s a legitimate opportunity for young athletes to showcase their talent on an international stage,” said Sabelo Hlongwane, Founder of LUFOY Academy. “It’s about creating realistic career and academic pathways for players in our region who aspire to play soccer in Europe.”
The Irish coaches involved in the partnership also work closely with colleges and universities in Ireland, providing academic opportunities and scholarship offers for players who may not yet be ready to turn professional but are eager to experience international education and competition.
In its inaugural year, the tour will be open to all interested players who meet basic criteria, offering an inclusive experience to explore international soccer and education. However, in the coming years, the tour is expected to evolve into an invitation-only program, selecting only the top-performing and most dedicated players from the regular season. “Setting a higher standard for young players always helps elevate the environment. The competitiveness early on, will help young players in the long run” said Coach Cameron McCullach of LOLA FC - LOLA Sports. The long-term vision includes sponsored tours, where costs are covered for elite players selected through performance and scouting.
“This partnership will raise the standard of youth soccer in Arkansas,” said Thabo Masoga, Director of Coaching at LUFOY Academy. “We’re connecting talent here with opportunity abroad—whether that’s in professional football or international academics.”
This unique collaboration marks a new chapter for Central Arkansas soccer, offering high-level exposure, professional development, and life-changing international experiences.
For media inquiries, interview requests, or more information on tryouts and tour dates, please contact:
Coaches - Sabelo Hlongwane & Thabo Masoga