Recognizing the Founders
The visionaries behind the Southampton Youth League
Welcome to the page dedicated to the visionary founders of the Southampton Youth League. Founded by the Nairobi Jaffery Academy Education Board, with key executors Sigve Austheim and Manuel Ruiz Pérez, their unwavering commitment to youth football and education has shaped the future of the league, providing opportunities for young athletes to showcase their talent and grow both on and off the field.
The Founders: Nairobi Jaffery Academy Education Board
The Southampton Youth League was established by the Nairobi Jaffery Academy Education Board, with Sigve Austheim and Manuel Ruiz Pérez serving as the key executors of this vision. Their combined expertise in education and football has created a platform that nurtures both academic and athletic excellence.
Sigve Austheim
A Visionary Leader in Education and Youth Football Development
Sigve Austheim is a distinguished leader in education with over 15 years of experience and a passion for youth development through sport. As the Principal of Nairobi Jaffery Academy, Sigve executed the vision of the Education Board to create the Southampton Youth League, bringing his expertise in both education and football to create an impactful platform for young athletes.
Sigve's approach focuses on personalized learning and fostering the holistic development of students, ensuring they excel in sports as well as academics. His leadership continues to drive the success of the Southampton Youth League, shaping young talent in Nairobi and beyond.
Manuel Ruiz Pérez (Manolo)
From La Liga to Giving Back in Nairobi
Manuel Ruiz Pérez, known as Manolo, brings a wealth of football experience from his time at Real Madrid and Besiktas. As a key executor of the Nairobi Jaffery Academy Education Board's vision, Manolo's impact is deeply felt in Nairobi, where he helped establish the Southampton Youth League alongside Sigve Austheim.
Manolo's hands-on approach to coaching and developing players has allowed the league to thrive. His commitment to nurturing the next generation of football stars is unwavering, and his legacy in Nairobi continues to inspire many young athletes.
Our Premier Partnership
Official Partnership with Southampton FC
The Southampton Youth League is proud to be officially affiliated with Southampton FC, one of the Premier League's most respected clubs known for their exceptional youth development program. This prestigious partnership provides our young athletes with a direct connection to professional football in the UK and opens pathways for talent development at the highest level.
Through this collaboration, Nairobi Jaffery Academy serves as the official international partner of Southampton FC in Kenya, creating a bridge between East African talent and European football excellence.
Founding Schools & Academies
These seven institutions helped lay the foundation for what has become an internationally recognized football league:
Nairobi Jaffery Academy
Official International Partner of Southampton FC
Mpesa Foundation Academy
Wadi Degla Club
Nairobi Academy
Emerald International School
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Woodcreek School
Swaminarayan
Each of these institutions has contributed to the league's growth, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where talent can be discovered and developed. Through their collaboration, the league has become a truly international initiative, providing opportunities for young players to develop their skills and pursue their football dreams.
A Shared Vision for the Future
With the dedication of the Nairobi Jaffery Academy Education Board and the execution by Sigve Austheim and Manuel Ruiz Pérez, alongside the support of our international partners, the Southampton Youth League is poised for even greater success. As the league continues to grow, it will remain focused on:
Nurturing talent
Offering young athletes the opportunity to develop their skills and passion for football.
Fostering values
Promoting teamwork, discipline, and respect both on and off the pitch.
Expanding the league
Continuing to bring together young footballers from around the world to compete and grow.
The future is bright for the Southampton Youth League, and we are excited to see the continued success of all our athletes as they represent the spirit of the game.
Join Us in Celebrating Their Impact
As we continue to build on the success of the Southampton Youth League, we honor the vision and leadership of the Nairobi Jaffery Academy Education Board, Sigve Austheim, and Manuel Ruiz Pérez. Their dedication has made a lasting impact on youth football in Nairobi and across the world, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations.