Our team

Meet Our Coaching Staff

At FTPR Lions Academy, our strength lies in our people. Our dedicated team of coaches, administrators, and support staff shares a common passion for developing young athletes and shaping future leaders. We are committed to providing a safe, positive, and professional environment where every player can grow in football, character, discipline, and life skills. Through mentorship, expertise, and genuine care for each child, our staff work tirelessly to help players become champions both on and off the pitch. Together, we inspire excellence, nurture talent, and build a culture of respect, responsibility, teamwork, and integrity. FTPR Lions Academy – Developing Talent, Building Character, Creating Leaders.

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Head Coach ( Technical Director)

Alain Mbabazi

Alain Mbabazi is the Founder and Head Coach of FTPR Lions Academy, a football development program dedicated to nurturing young talent and building character both on and off the pitch. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sports from the former Kigali Institute of Education, now part of the University of Rwanda – College of Education, and further strengthened his expertise with a Postgraduate Diploma in Football Coaching from Leipzig University in Germany. He is a highly qualified coach, holding a DFB Licence A (Germany) and a CAF Licence B, and is currently a candidate for the CAF Licence A. Through his continuous professional development, Alain combines European and African coaching methodologies to deliver high-quality, modern, and player-centered training. In his role at FTPR Lions Academy, he is responsible for designing training sessions, supervising coaching staff, and guiding coaches during daily practice to ensure consistency, quality, and player development across all age groups. The vision of FTPR Lions Academy was born from a deep personal transformation and calling. Inspired by a message from Dr. Myles Munroe on “Discovering Your Purpose,” and after making a personal decision to follow Jesus Christ, Alain committed his life to using football as a platform for purpose, discipline, and impact. Today, he continues to lead FTPR with a mission to develop champions—athletes who succeed in football and grow into responsible, purposeful individuals in life.

Goalkeeper Coach

Emery Mvuyekure

Emery Mvuyekure is a Rwandan professional goalkeeper and former international player for the Amavubi national team. Known for his leadership, consistency, and shot-stopping ability, he has built a solid career across top clubs in East Africa. Mvuyekure has played for several prominent clubs including APR FC, Police FC, and AS Kigali in Rwanda, as well as Tusker FC in the Kenyan Premier League, where he established himself as an experienced and reliable last line of defense. His performances at club level earned him multiple call-ups to the Rwanda national team, where he represented his country in international competitions and FIFA World Cup qualifying campaigns. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for his discipline, professionalism, and resilience, often contributing significantly in high-pressure matches. His experience in both domestic and international football has made him one of the respected Rwandan goalkeepers of his generation. After an active playing career at the top level, Emery transitioned into coaching and currently holds a CAF Licence D, demonstrating his commitment to developing future football talent and contributing to the growth of the game.

Coach

Better Gasana

Better Gasana is a Rwandan football coach and former professional player who competed in Rwanda’s Second Division League. During his playing career, he was known for his discipline, tactical awareness, and strong commitment on the pitch. After retiring from active football, Better transitioned into coaching, where he continued to develop his passion for the game by mentoring young players and contributing to football development at grassroots and competitive levels. He currently holds the CAF Coaching Licence C, a certification that reflects his technical knowledge and ability to coach and develop players according to CAF standards. Through his coaching journey, he focuses on building player discipline, technical skills, teamwork, and a strong football mentality. Better Gasana remains dedicated to growing football talent and contributing to the development of the game in Rwanda through structured training and player development programs.

Coach

Etienne Ushizimpumu

Etienne Ushizimpumu is a trained Physical Education educator with a strong background in sports science and athlete development. He has completed specialized training courses in football coaching and physical conditioning, strengthening his expertise in both technical and performance-based aspects of sport. He holds the CAF B Coaching Licence (Licence D CAF), equipping him with recognized competencies in coaching methodology, player development, and game management. Etienne is passionate about nurturing young talent, promoting physical fitness, and building disciplined, confident athletes through structured training and positive mentorship. With a commitment to continuous learning and excellence, he combines educational principles with modern coaching techniques to support holistic development in sport and education environments.

coach

Mupenzi Iragena Derrick

Mupenzi is a Rwandan football coach and former player who competed in the Rwanda Second Division League, where he built valuable experience as a dedicated and disciplined player. His background in competitive football at the national level has shaped his deep understanding of the game, both tactically and technically. He currently holds the CAF C Coaching Licence, demonstrating his commitment to structured coaching development and modern football methodologies. With this qualification, Mupenzi is equipped to train young players, develop grassroots talent, and contribute to team performance at the academy and school levels. Known for his passion for the game, leadership qualities, and player-centered coaching approach, Mupenzi continues to play an important role in nurturing the next generation of football talent in Rwanda.

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Omar Nturanyenabo

Omar Nturanyenabo is a Rwandan football professional and former player who competed in the Rwanda Second Division league. Known for his discipline, work ethic, and deep understanding of the game, he built his football experience through years of participation at the competitive level in Rwandan domestic football. After his playing career, Omar transitioned into coaching, where he continues to contribute to the development of young football talent. He is a certified coach holding a CAF License D, equipping him with foundational technical and tactical coaching knowledge in line with CAF coaching standards. With a strong passion for grassroots football development, Omar focuses on player development, team organization, and instilling discipline and professionalism in young athletes. He is committed to using football as a tool for growth, education, and positive impact within his community.

Medical staff

Sylvia Tumwebaze

Sylvia is a qualified nurse who graduated from the University of Rwanda College of Medicine and Health Sciences. She brings valuable experience in treating and caring for young children, ensuring their health, safety, and well-being at all times. Currently serving as the Primary School Nurse at Green Hills Academy, Sylvia is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for learners. Her expertise in child healthcare and emergency response makes her an essential part of the academy team, providing medical support during training sessions, matches, and other activities. Passionate about children's health and development, Sylvia works closely with coaches, educators, and parents to promote healthy lifestyles and ensure that every child can participate in activities safely and confidently.

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Meet Our Coaching Staff