EPIC Football Academy
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EPIC coach leading a youth football training session in Dubai
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Youth Football
Training FAQ

The questions parents ask most before joining EPIC — coaching and safety, how we develop players, fees, logistics and pathways. If we haven't answered it, ask us directly.

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Coaching & SafetyTraining PhilosophyFees, Trials & What's IncludedLogistics & LocationsPlayer Pathways & ProgressFit, Culture & Getting Started
Coaching & safety

Coaching & Safety

Are EPIC coaches qualified and background-checked?
Every EPIC coach is qualified, vetted and experienced in youth development. Our staff hold recognised coaching qualifications and have passed background checks in line with Dubai Sports Council and UAE safeguarding requirements before stepping on a pitch with your child.
Are coaches trained in child safeguarding and first aid?
Yes. All coaches are briefed on child protection and safeguarding, and first-aid trained staff are present at sessions. Venues have on-site medical access, and we follow clear protocols for heat, hydration and any incident on the pitch.
What is the coach-to-player ratio?
We deliberately keep groups small. Most sessions run with around 8–12 children per coach so every player gets feedback, touches on the ball and proper attention — not lost in a crowd of 20+.
How do you prevent injuries?
Every session starts with an age-appropriate warm-up and movement work, sessions are pitched to the child's stage, and we use approved, well-maintained venues. Coaches manage workload, water breaks and intensity — especially during Dubai's hotter months when we move indoors.
How we coach

Training Philosophy

Do you focus on winning or on developing the player?
Player development first. Winning is the by-product. Our curriculum builds technique, decision-making and game understanding so your child becomes a better footballer — and the trophies follow, as our roll of honour shows.
Is there a structured curriculum?
Yes. EPIC runs a clear age-and-stage pathway from First Steps (ages 4–6) through Development, Performance and Squad teams. Each stage has defined learning outcomes, weekly themes and progression markers — not random drills.
How is training tailored to age and ability?
Children are grouped by age and stage, then differentiated within the session. A confident player gets a tougher challenge in the same drill a newer player tackles at their own level — so everyone is stretched, no one is left behind.
How do you keep children motivated?
Sessions are fun, fast and game-based. Coaches praise effort, set personal challenges and celebrate progress — not just goals. Children who enjoy turning up improve quickest, and that's the culture we protect.
Pricing & value

Fees, Trials & What's Included

What do the fees include?
Fees cover coaching, planned curriculum, venue hire and ongoing player development. Tournament entries and team kit are typically separate where applicable — full details are on our Fees & Packages page.
How many sessions per week are available?
Most age groups train 1–3 times per week, with the option to add Squad training and Indoor sessions. You choose a package that fits your child's age, level and your family's schedule.
Do you offer a free trial?
Yes — every new player is welcome to a free trial session before committing. It's the best way for you and your child to meet the coach, see the format and decide if EPIC is the right fit.
Are there hidden costs?
No. Pricing is transparent: a monthly or term package per chosen frequency, with kit and any optional tournament entries listed separately. We tell you upfront — no surprise add-ons.
Sessions & venues

Logistics & Locations

Where are EPIC training venues?
We train across Dubai including Dubai Hills, Dubai Sports City, Studio City, Damac Hills, Tilal Al Ghaf and JVC. See the Training Venues page for the nearest pitch to you — or book a trial and we'll match you to the closest community.
What days and times do sessions run?
Sessions run on weekday evenings and weekend mornings, with indoor slots available during summer. Exact times depend on age group and venue — confirmed when you book your trial.
How big are the squads, and how much playing time will my child get?
We keep groups small so children get real touches, real reps and real game time. Inside a session and at fixtures, our coaches manage minutes so every committed player gets meaningful time on the pitch.
What happens in extreme heat or rain?
During Dubai's summer months and on extreme-weather days we shift to air-conditioned indoor venues so training never stops. Families are notified in advance of any venue or time change.
Progress & pathways

Player Pathways & Progress

How do you track my child's progress?
Coaches monitor each player across our development markers — technique, decision-making, attitude and physical work. Parents get regular feedback on what their child is working on and how they're moving through the pathway.
Is there a clear pathway from beginner to competitive football?
Yes. EPIC's pathway runs from First Steps and Development through to Performance and Squad teams competing in DOFA, Barca, Star, Empire and Just Play leagues — so a child who starts at 5 has a clear route through to representative football.
Can players move up to a higher level or join a Squad team?
Absolutely. When a player is ready, coaches invite them to trial the next stage or a Squad team. Movement is based on readiness — technical, physical and attitudinal — not just age.
How will I hear about my child's development?
Through end-of-term feedback from coaches, conversations on the side of the pitch and direct chats whenever you need them. Coaches are approachable — ask, and you'll get a straight answer.
Is EPIC right for us?

Fit, Culture & Getting Started

Is EPIC beginner-friendly?
Yes. A large share of our players start as complete beginners. Our First Steps and Development groups are built for children new to football — the only requirement is that they want to play.
What's the parent culture like?
Supportive and grounded. Parents are welcome at sessions and games, the touchline is positive, and coaches lead the technical side so families can simply enjoy watching their child play.
How do we book a free trial?
Tap Book a Free Trial on this page, share your child's age and preferred venue, and we'll confirm a session within 24 hours. There's no obligation — come, train, decide afterwards.
What parents say

Loved By Dubai Families

5.0★★★★★Real reviews from
EPIC parents on Google
S
Seth Munhenzwa
★★★★★

Clearly the best academy around! I have 2 kids in the academy and they enjoy being part of the Epic family. I have seen them thrive and become the very best version of themselves. Their footballing skills keep getting sharpened by the day and they have made friends easily with their team mates, brav…

Posted on Google
I
Ibrahim Amin
★★★★★

The best football academy in Dubai. I have two kids and had tried at least 5 other academies in the past. Once we switched to Epic we never looked back. Great progress made on the pitch for both kids and they've won many trophies too on the way. Love it and would strongly recommend it.

Posted on Google
T
Talina Gonzalez
★★★★★

Not only a football Academy, but an amazing Community of children and parents. It's probably the only football Academy in Dubai where the Coach seriously takes the time to study the strength and weaknesses of each one of his children and he definitely pushes them to their limits but allowing them to…

Posted on Google
D
Dorla Shaya
★★★★★

Epic is a great team, Coach Miro is doing great job, kids are progressing and playing with the spirit of a great team 💪 we are like a big family. Parents and kids, we're enjoying our time as much as our kids 🤗…

Posted on Google
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