Welcome to Coach James Academy, a private training programme dedicated to helping players reach their full potential, from grassroots level through to the professional game. Our aim is to help create a professional football environment for players and help them improve on their technical ability on the ball in a competitive setting. CJA was founded by James Makanjuola, who is a leading coach in Essex particularly with elite level 1-2-1 training. James also currently works as at Cat 2 academy coach for Colchester United.
Our 1-2-1s and small group sessions are designed to target the specific needs of each player. With smaller group sizes, we ensure maximum ball contact time and focused coaching, allowing players to refine their techniques through purposeful, high-repetition practice. Session by session, our aim is to help every player develop the skills and confidence needed to excel at the highest level and truly stand out on the pitch. (maximum 1-4 players)
Our holiday football camps are designed to refine players’ skills in a fun and competitive environment. Over the course of the camp, players enjoy a full day of football, focusing on all-around ball mastery and technique, while having a great time and building confidence.
Our CJA football birthday parties offer a fun, energetic and unforgettable experience for all children. We create a lively football-filled celebration with exciting games, challenges, and mini-matches, ensuring every child is active, engaged, and having a great time. Our sessions are designed to be enjoyable for all ability levels, making the day memorable, competitive, and full of smiles.
At CJA, we prioritize developing exceptional ball mastery and technical skills. Our training emphasizes high-intensity drills, focusing on dribbling, one-on-one and small-sided scenarios, and adapting to dynamic game situations. We encourage players to be brave, experiment with new skills, and work hard, all within a fun, supportive, and competitive environment. At CJA, we believe in nurturing both technical ability and a love for the game.
At CJA, ball mastery is at the heart of our training. We emphasize dribbling, receiving, and passing, helping players build confidence and skill on the ball. We also incorporate shooting techniques to ensure players are well-rounded and ready to dominate on the pitch no matter the position they play.
At CJA, 1v1 situations are a key part of our training. We believe that mastering 1v1s helps players build bravery, confidence, and creativity on the ball. By giving kids ample repetition in these scenarios, we not only enhance their attacking skills but also their defensive abilities. This comprehensive approach ensures players are well-rounded and prepared for any challenge on the field.
At CJA, our final third practice focuses on game-related scenarios that mirror real match situations. We create drills that simulate pressure from all angles—front, back, and sides—and incorporate various small-group situations like 1v1s, 2v2s, 3v3 and also in under loaded and overloaded situation. Whether in wide or central areas, these practices help players develop a deeper understanding of the game and sharpen their decision-making in tight spaces.
At CJA, small-sided games are a cornerstone of our training. We go beyond just playing matches by focusing on key aspects of the game, such as scanning, executing two-man combinations, and mastering different pressing strategies. Whether it’s winning the ball high up the pitch or sitting deep in defense, these small-sided scenarios give players a comprehensive understanding of the game and improve their tactical awareness.
Our weekly development sessions at CJA include Wednesday Futsal and group training on Fridays and Saturdays. These sessions are designed to enhance players’ skills in a fun, competitive environment, building on the core principles we’ve emphasized.
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Futsal
Ages - 5 To 8
Futsal
Ages - 9 To 13
Ages - 5 To 13
Ages - 5 To 13
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