Following the successful participation of Elite Football Academy in the Surf Cup International Salou 2024 across three age categories, the Canadian academy based in Calgary has officially signed a partnership agreement with the International Development Academy (IDA) to further the development of its players.
Ali El Gandour, Director of Elite Football Academy, alongside his brother Moe El Gandour, head coach of the U15 team, described this collaboration as a significant step forward in their mission to elevate the competitive level of their athletes. The relationship between IDA and Elite Football Academy began during the Surf Cup International in Salou, where both organizations connected and discovered shared values and synergies, ultimately paving the way for this exciting partnership.
Reflecting on the tournament, Moe El Gandour shared his thoughts:
“The Surf Cup International Salou was unlike anything we’ve experienced before in terms of competition and organization. We’ve participated in other tournaments in Spain, but the level of professionalism, intensity, and structure at Surf Cup was truly on another level.”
The Canadian teams had the unique opportunity to compete against a range of international and professional youth academies, including those from Villarreal C.F., UD Las Palmas, CD Castellón, and SD Huesca.
Ali El Gandour also commented on the new partnership:
“The goal of this collaboration is to provide our players with an international platform to continue their growth. Beyond participating in IDA’s elite tournaments, we also aim to involve our athletes in the various programs they offer, opening up new pathways and future opportunities for them.”
This alliance marks a new chapter for Elite Football Academy, offering its players access to high-level competition and professional development opportunities on a global stage.
