Founder/Head Coach
Femi Orenuga, founder and head coach, made history as the youngest player to debut professionally for Southend United FC at 15 years old, later being signed by Everton FC. Growing up in Lewisham, London, Femi witnessed the challenges many young people face, which fuelled his passion to give back to the community. Through his leadership and experience, he aims to inspire the next generation and create opportunities for youth in football.
Assistant Coach
Kenneth Orenuga is a dedicated football coach with a wealth of experience both on and off the field. Having played the sport himself, he brings a unique perspective to his coaching, understanding the game from a player's viewpoint. His passion for football is evident in his commitment developing young talent and fostering teamwork. Kenneth's expertise and enthusiasm make him a valuable asset to any team looking to improve and succeed.
My Story
Football has been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. Growing up in Lewisham, South East London, I saw first-hand the challenges that many young people face. Like many kids, football became more than just a game to me it was an escape, a source of discipline, and a pathway to opportunities that I may never have otherwise experienced.
At just 15 years old, I made history by becoming the youngest player ever to make a professional appearance for Southend United FC, a record that still stands today following my debut against Luton Town in the FA Cup in 2008. It was a moment that changed my life and showed me what can happen when talent is matched with hard work, dedication, and the right support network.
My journey continued when I signed for Everton FC, one of England’s most prestigious football clubs, where I had the opportunity to learn from top coaches and develop alongside some of the country’s best young players. I later went on to make my Football League debut for Notts County, gaining valuable experience in the professional game and learning lessons that have stayed with me throughout my career.
While football opened many doors for me, it also taught me that success is about much more than what happens on the pitch. Throughout my journey, I met incredible mentors, coaches, teachers, and role models who believed in me and helped shape the person I am today. Their guidance made me realise how important positive influences are in a young person’s life.
As I’ve grown older, my passion has shifted towards giving back. I founded this coaching programme because I want young players to have access to the same encouragement, opportunities, and belief that helped me reach the professional game. My goal is not simply to develop better footballers, but to help build confident, disciplined, resilient young people who carry those qualities into every area of their lives.
Every training session is built around more than just football skills. I want players to learn the importance of teamwork, respect, communication, accountability, and self-belief. Whether a child dreams of becoming a professional footballer or simply wants to improve their confidence and enjoy the game, they deserve an environment where they feel supported, challenged, and inspired.
Today, seeing young players develop, grow in confidence, and achieve their own goals brings me just as much pride as any achievement from my playing career. This programme is my way of giving back to the community, creating opportunities for the next generation, and helping young people realise that with the right mindset and work ethic, anything is possible.
My story started in the football cages of Lewisham, but its purpose today is helping others write their own.
