Finishing touches put to LFF national academy

The opening of a public square lined with trees and benches marked the completion of the long-running Lithuanian Football Federation (LFF) national academy project.

First opened more than ten years ago, when it comprised one small building and a single pitch, the national academy is now the biggest and best-known training centre in Lithuania and a place for the country's most talented young footballers to live, train and study.

The youngsters at the national academy feed Lithuania's age group sides, with a number also on the radar of Europe's top clubs. Some have already made big moves, such as defender Aurimas Vilkaitis who signed for S.S. Lazio.

The academy's four outdoor pitches and fully equipped indoor facilities are put to great use by professionals and public alike, meaning the premises are fully occupied all year round.

According to the LFF, the project received great support from UEFA and FIFA as it grew into Lithuania's outstanding football training base, while the city of Kaunas also made a significant contribution.

To show its gratitude, the LFF has donated a public square near the academy. As well as benches, the square contains a monument honouring Lithuania's most famous folk-music festival, the Dainų šventė, a tradition that features on the UNESCO intangible cultural heritage list.