Where passion meets purpose. Developing every player - from grassroots to elite.
Join the AcademyWhere passion meets purpose, and potential becomes performance.
At Pillars Academy, we believe every child carries greatness within them. Our mission is to develop confident athletes, disciplined young leaders, and resilient individuals both on and off the field. Through elite coaching, structured development, and a family-driven culture, we create an environment where talent is nurtured, character is built, and dreams are pursued with purpose.
Founded by Kurt McKenzie, Pillars Academy was established with a vision to raise the standard of youth sports development — combining professional football training with mentorship, education, discipline, and life values. What started as a passion for developing young athletes has grown into a movement focused on empowering the next generation.
We are more than an academy.
We are a home for ambition.
A platform for growth.
A community built on commitment, respect, excellence, and opportunity.
Whether your child is taking their first steps into sport or chasing elite performance pathways, Pillars Academy provides the guidance, structure, and inspiration to help them thrive.
"Strong Foundations. Limitless Futures."
Join the Pillars family and become part of something bigger than the game.
Learn More About UsThree pillars of excellence that set us apart
Structured training that builds technical skills, tactical intelligence, and physical performance. We develop complete players the right way.
We build strong individuals through discipline, respect, leadership, and teamwork. Better players. Better people.
Tournaments, elite competition, international exposure, and pathways to higher levels. We open doors for players to go further.
Proud alumni who have made their mark in professional football
National call up. Moved from Pillars to Tuks and plays in the Hollywood Bets Women's League for UWC.
Played at Pillars and through the elite pathway received a scholarship to study and play in the United States of America. Tevan has received numerous accolades and also plays for Midwest FC.
Played for Pillars and through the elite pathway received a scholarship to study and play in the United States of America.
Played for Pillars and through our elite pathway received a scholarship to study and play in the United States of America.
At Pillars Football Academy, everything we do is built on five essential pillars. Together, they create complete players—on and off the pitch.
We build confident players through mastery of the fundamentals.
We develop intelligent players who understand the game.
We build strong, athletic players through smart, age-appropriate training.
We shape strong individuals with the right mindset and values.
We create opportunities and open doors for our players.
Hear from parents and former players
Academy Player
Growing up, soccer wasn't really I sport I was good at but in high school I fell in love with the sport. I started playing for Pillars Academy from grade 9. Being new to the sport I didn't have the best technical skills, Coach Kurt together with the Pillars family helped me develop myself into the player I am today. Pillars Academy is a club which helps develop young footballers into the best version of themselves soccer wise and as an individual. The club is a family who supports each other through everything. They teach their players about giving back to the community, being leaders and using their talents for good.I am proud to be apart of such an amazing club and I would recommend any aspiring footballer to join the club. There are so many opportunities within the club such as getting an opportunity to study in America as well as play soccer. I am grateful to have received that opportunity. Life in America has being challenging for a young footballer who comes from South Africa, but by God's grace I have achieved many goals being in the States. If you are looking for a club that supports you, develops you but also challenges you to the best you can be, join Pillars Academy, a club where champions are made.
Academy Player
Being apart of pillars has been one of the best highlights in my life, pillars is not just an academy It's family. It definitely does allow a player to grow and develop, take me for instants. If you compare the player that I am right now to the one I was in grade 8, there's major growth. Coming to America has always been a dream and for that dream to come to a reality its just mind blowing, It has not been easy though but with the support of my family, friends and pillars Academy I am encouraged each and every day to push myself even when I don't feel like it because giving up is not an option my family has sacrificed way too much for me to be here for me to throw in the towel. I would recommend other to join Pillars, without pillars I wouldn't be the player that I am today and that I will forever be grateful for.
Stay updated with academy happenings
Our U-17 team secured the regional championship title with an impressive performance throughout the season.
Read More →
Congratulations to our players who have been selected to represent the national youth team in upcoming international fixtures.
Read More →
We're excited to announce the upcoming opening of our state-of-the-art training facilities, featuring modern equipment and amenities.
Read More →Join Pillars Academy and take the first step towards achieving your football dreams