XVAcademy
ABOUT XVACADEMY
XVAcademy was created to give boys and girls ages 3-16 greater opportunities to train, develop and enjoy their football in a professional, positive, and supportive environment.
We know that player development takes time on the pitch. However, unpredictable weather, limited access to quality facilities and large group sizes can all limit the time players have to train and work with their coaches. XVAcademy was established to provide additional opportunities for players to get those valuable hours on the ball, with quality coaching and an environment designed around their development.
Based at The XVArena, our dedicated indoor football development centre in Galway, we provide a consistent environment for players to train throughout the year. Our UEFA-licensed coaches deliver purposeful sessions in small groups, giving players more time with their coach, more opportunities to receive feedback and more chances to put what they learn into practice.
From Mini Ballers and weekly academies to individual coaching, development camps and specialist programmes, we offer a multitude of opportunities for boys and girls at different stages of their football journey. We are constantly looking for new ways to help players progress while making sure they continue to enjoy the game.
At XVAcademy, our goal is simple: to create an environment where every player can develop, challenge themselves and reach their potential - one session at a time.
THE TEAM BEHIND XVACADEMY
Behind XVAcademy is a team with a shared passion for football, player development, and creating better opportunities for young players across Galway.
Xavi Vázquez - Co-founder & Head Coach
Xavi is the founder and head coach of XVAcademy, bringing more than 20 years of coaching experience. Originally from Spain, he has worked with players from U4 level through to senior football and has experience across both grassroots and high-performance environments.
Since moving to Galway in 2018, Xavi has coached with Galway United Academy and a number of clubs across County Galway including Knocknacarra FC, Craughwell United, Galway Bohemians, and Barna Furbo FC. His experience includes working with elite youth players in Spain and leading Galway United's U14s to the 2021 National League title and the 2022 National Cup final.
At XVAcademy, Xavi is responsible for the academy's coaching approach and player development, ensuring every session has a clear purpose and players are given the opportunity to progress.
Conor O'Keeffe - Co-founder & Coach
Conor is a professional footballer and co-owner of XVAcademy, combining first-hand experience of the demands of playing at a high level with a genuine passion for developing the next generation of footballers. Having played across the League of Ireland, he excels in bringing his array of experiences on the pitch directly into his coaching.
His approach combines technical and tactical knowledge with a strong focus on mindset, discipline and professionalism. Conor is passionate about helping young players understand what it takes to improve and encouraging them to reach their potential both on and off the pitch.
He believes that the right environment can make a lasting difference to a player's development, helping young footballers build confidence, character and a genuine love for the game.
Francis Kelly - Co-founder & Operations
Francis is the third member of XVAcademy's founding team and oversees the academy's operations, technology and business development.
With a strong background in computing, digital strategy and football administration, Francis brings together his professional experience and passion for the game to help XVAcademy continue to grow and develop. Before joining XVAcademy, he was Commercial Manager at Galway United FC, where he worked across partnerships, brand development and community engagement.
At XVAcademy, Francis focuses on building the infrastructure and experience that allows the academy, its coaches and its players to thrive. His focus is on creating an academy that is well-run, forward-thinking and built around delivering the best possible experience for every player and family.
