Growing up in Eldorado Park, Keanin Ayer never imagined that he would one day find himself playing alongside future Premier League stars like Mohamed Kudus and Simon Adingra.
However, his football journey took him far from home and into the heart of Ghana, where he joined the prestigious Right to Dream academy.
The Path to Right to Dream
Keanin Ayer’s journey to Ghana began in 2011 when he first participated in trials at the Right to Dream academy.
After impressing the scouts, he returned for another trial in 2012, ultimately earning a spot at the academy in 2013 at just 13 years old.
Leaving his family and the familiarity of South Africa behind, Ayer found himself in a new environment filled with challenges and opportunities.
He recalls how living in Ghana made him stronger and more independent.
As the only non-West African player at the academy, Ayer had to adapt quickly.
The experience opened his mind and shaped his character in ways that might not have been possible had he stayed in Eldorado Park.
Life at the Academy
The Right to Dream academy offered more than just football training; it provided a comprehensive education, both on and off the pitch.
Ayer described the environment as highly competitive, with players from across West Africa striving to secure professional contracts by the age of 18.
Despite the competition, a strong sense of community prevailed, as players lived together in shared accommodations, relying on one another for support in the absence of their families.
One of the standout aspects of the academy for Ayer was the emphasis on character development.
The academy’s character classes taught valuable life lessons, something Ayer believes is lacking in many South African academies.
He emphasized that these classes played a significant role in shaping his outlook on life and football, giving him an edge that he might not have developed elsewhere.
Reflecting on Football Development in Ghana vs. South Africa
Ayer noted that Ghana’s approach to football development felt more intense compared to South Africa.
While he acknowledged that South Africa also takes football seriously, he believes the depth of character-building programs in Ghana gives players there a unique advantage.
According to Ayer, if similar programs were implemented in South African academies, it could significantly enhance the development of young players.
Playing Alongside Future Stars
During his time at Right to Dream, Ayer had the privilege of playing alongside some of Africa’s rising stars, including Mohamed Kudus and Simon Adingra.
Kudus is now making waves at West Ham, while Adingra shines at Brighton & Hove Albion.
Ayer takes pride in having shared the pitch with these talented players, who have gone on to achieve success in the Premier League and represent their countries at the highest levels, such as the Africa Cup of Nations.
Moving Forward in His Career
After leaving Right to Dream in 2018, Ayer’s football journey continued in Europe.
He was scouted by Swedish club Varbergs BoIS FC, where he made a significant impact with 68 appearances, three goals, and five assists.
His career then took him to Norway with Sandefjord Fotball, followed by a stint in Denmark with Næstved Boldklub.
Now, after more than a decade abroad, Ayer has returned to South Africa, joining SuperSport United as he embarks on the next chapter of his football career.
As he looks to the future, Ayer carries with him the lessons and experiences from his time in Ghana, Europe, and beyond.
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