Arminia Bielefeld Expands Football Development Programme in Johannesburg

The programme, delivered in a relationship with three community schools and the City of Johannesburg, Sport and Recreation Department included both theoretical and practical sessions. 

It gave local coaches an opportunity to expand their technical knowledge, develop practical coaching skills and learn methods that can support the long-term development of young players.

Arminia Bielefeld launched the initiative with one school as a pilot project last year. Following its successful implementation, the programme has already expanded to three schools, demonstrating the club’s commitment to establishing a meaningful and sustainable presence in the South African market.

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Over the next three to five years, Arminia Bielefeld, aim to extend the programme to more schools across Gauteng. 

Through regular football camps and coach development sessions, the partners intend to broaden access to quality football education and create lasting opportunities within local communities. 

The initiative reflects Arminia Bielefeld’s long-term approach to South Africa. 

By sharing the club’s football knowledge and development experience with community coaches and players, the programme seeks to strengthen local coaching capacity while supporting the growth of young football talent. 

Arminia Bielefeld remains focused on consistency, measurable impact and sustainability. 

Its continued involvement will help ensure that participating coaches and players receive meaningful development opportunities rather than once-off interventions. The successful weekend programme represents another important step in the partnership’s ambition to build a stronger and more sustainable football-development pathway for schools and communities throughout Johannesburg and, ultimately, the wider Gauteng region.

 Arminia Bielefeld has become a beacon of hope for our community. Across nine schools, nearly 3,500 children have access to very few coaches, with most soccer activities led by parents and volunteers. Through this programme, community coaches receive top-tier European guidance, exposing children to world-class standards and strengthening grassroots football. 

It has united and inspired our community. We are deeply grateful to Arminia Bielefeld and the Bundesliga for their invaluable support.”— Community Coach Sulie, Crosby Academic Primary School.

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