They say that greatness is measured by deeds, by what is left behind…
Banjaluka native Srdjan Babić, a representative of Serbia, has launched a football academy set to come to life this autumn.
The opening of the “SB Academy” is scheduled for September 1st in the Banjaluka neighborhood of Česma, from where Babić embarked on his journey through Borac and Vojvodina, then Red Star Belgrade, followed by stints in Portugal, Spain, and now Russia, where he plays for the country’s biggest club, Spartak Moscow.
In an interview with “Glas Srpske,” Srdjan Babić revealed his ideas and plans for the “SB Academy.”
- “The idea was to create a real sports story in Banjaluka. It would truly delight me if a large number of boys could follow a path similar to mine. My journey was filled with many obstacles, ups and downs, and the idea is to ease this path for the boys from the academy, to prepare them for this journey, and to make them love sports, primarily football. Many of us have left Banjaluka and built successful careers, like the Vranješ brothers, Vladan Kovačević… My wish is for the boys from my academy to follow this path, for as many of them as possible to live off football. Despite my many obligations with Spartak, I will try to attend the opening,” said Babić.
Licensed coaches work with the boys, focusing on the technical, tactical, physical, and psychological aspects of football, which is the mission of the “SB Academy.”
The top priorities in this modern football school are respect, team spirit, discipline, fair play, and behavior towards all participants. The online enrollment for future members of the “SB Academy” Football School for boys aged four to ten is currently ongoing.
Training sessions will be held on a modern covered field, popularly known as the “bubble,” built to the most contemporary standards. It spans 1,200 square meters and includes a field with artificial grass, locker rooms, and all other elements necessary for quality work. All those who wish to try out at Srdjan Babić’s football academy can apply via the website https://sbacademy.ba/.
- “I plan to bring many of my friends, former teammates, to Banjaluka to the academy as early as next summer. So that the kids can get to know them, hang out with them, take pictures. Also, to play a bit of football with the boys, to show them some tricks. Overall, a beautiful story lies ahead,” Babić conveyed.
The “SB Academy” made its debut last month at a prestigious international tournament in Zlatibor, where it competed against Partizan, Red Star, and other clubs from the region. Preliminary contacts have been made with clubs like Udinese and Sporting Lisbon.
National team, rest, Spartak
Babić admits that after completing his obligations with the Serbia national team at the European Championship, he didn’t have much time to rest, quickly joining the training process of Spartak Moscow.
- “When you spend the summer with the national team, there is no rest. I paused for about five or six days. I don’t regret it at all; I just wish we had achieved a better result in Germany. I’m now with Spartak for pre-season, we have two more friendly matches, and then the season starts. We kick off with an away game in Orenburg on July 21st,” said Babić.
Source: Glas Srpske
