A football academy project is taking shape in the Voronezh region, with Fakel planning to open a boarding school for young players in 2024. The initiative is highlighted by the club’s General Manager, Roman Ashkabadze, who emphasized that the current facilities can no longer accommodate the growing number of aspiring footballers seeking to learn and improve their skills.
Ashkabadze explained that the plan targets talented boys from across the Voronezh region who lack the resources to relocate to Voronezh just to pursue football. He noted that the region is expansive and that not everyone can be housed there. Consequently, a collaborative effort with the relevant department and regional leadership led to a project to rebuild the base and expand capacity, ensuring opportunities for local youth to train at a proper football facility.
The club finished 11th in the Russian Premier League, amassing 20 points from 17 matches. Fakel is set to play its final game of the year 2023 at home against Dinamo Moscow, scheduled for December 10 with kickoff at 14:00 Moscow time. This season has reinforced the need for stronger youth development pathways as a pillar for long term growth and competitiveness.
In related developments, former footballer Alexander Mostovoy has expressed interest in taking a leadership role at Spartak, signaling ongoing conversations about leadership and strategic direction within Russian football circles.
The boarding school project represents a strategic investment in regional talent development, aiming to cultivate homegrown players who can compete at higher levels without enduring the burden of long-distance relocation. It also mirrors broader efforts across the country to expand access to top-tier training facilities for talented youngsters who show early potential. The initiative is expected to create a sustainable pipeline of players who can contribute to Fakel’s future successes while strengthening the local football ecosystem across Voronezh and neighboring areas.
As plans proceed, club officials are coordinating with regional authorities to finalize funding, site redevelopment, and program structure. The emphasis remains clear: nurture local talent, widen access to high-quality coaching, and build a stable pathway from youth football to the professional ranks. Stakeholders believe that the boarding school could become a model for other regions seeking similar development tracks, combining athletic training with education and life skills essential for young athletes.
Current supporters and local communities are watching closely as construction timelines are laid out and program details are refined. The goal is not only to provide top-level football training but also to create a supportive environment that helps young players balance sport, study, and personal growth. The plan envisions a community hub where families can engage with the club, coaches, and peers, fostering a sense of belonging and motivation for aspiring footballers.
Overall, the initiative signals a proactive approach to building sustainable football excellence from within the region, while aligning with the broader objectives of Russian football to develop homegrown talent and strengthen league competitiveness. The project remains subject to final approvals and ongoing collaboration among the club, regional leadership, and education authorities.