Driven by passion and purpose, Coach Nate Burkey is proving that the beautiful game can thrive anywhere.
In the golden glow of a San Juan sunset, where the waves crash just a few meters from the pitch, children chase a ball across a patch of grass — laughing, determined. Their shouts mix with the sea breeze, echoing a dream that is slowly taking root in the North.
This is La Union Football Academy — born from one man’s quiet conviction that football can change lives.
Where It All Began
In 2023, Nate Burkey, a name once chanted in stadiums as a member of the Philippines Men’s National Team, found himself staring at a different kind of challenge.
La Union, known for its surf and sunsets, had no organized football structure — no regional association, no youth league, no training ground for the next generation of players.
So he built one.
That spark of purpose became La Union Football Academy (LUFA) — a home for children and families, a bridge between passion and opportunity, and a symbol of what’s possible when you bring football to where it’s never been before.
Play. Learn. Belong.
From day one, the academy wasn’t just about producing players; it was about creating belonging. Parents, coaches, and kids gathered for weekend open plays, where laughter filled the air and friendships formed faster than goals were scored.
Local businesses began to notice — donating balls, jerseys, and sometimes snacks after training. The pitch became the town’s newest gathering place — a home built on trust, teamwork, and the shared joy of the game.
Building Players the Right Way
Ball first. Player first.
In an age where many chase trophies, LUFA chooses to build foundations. Every training session focuses on ball mastery, confidence, and creativity — teaching kids to love the ball before they ever think of winning.
Under his leadership — supported by an AFC C License and a USSF D License — La Union Football Academy runs structured weekly programs for children aged 3 to 16, developing their technique, game intelligence, and, most importantly, their joy.
A Pathway for Every Child
From tots to teens, beginners to budding talents, LUFA ensures no child is left behind.
- Ages 3–11 learn the basics — dribbling, coordination, fun games that teach teamwork.
- Ages 11–16 step into more competitive, skill-focused drills designed to refine touch, positioning, and awareness.
The academy also promotes girls’ and women’s football, futsal training, and the annual LUFA Futsal Friendlies — a growing community event that gives young players their first taste of competition, camaraderie, and pride in wearing their colors.
More Than Matches — It’s Movement
Without a functioning Regional Football Association in Region 1, LUFA faced a mountain of challenges: no formal leagues, limited opponents, and scarce funding.
But instead of waiting, they started something.
The academy’s own futsal friendlies became the spark that ignited a mini-revival of football in the North. Neighboring towns began forming teams. Coaches collaborated. Parents volunteered.
And just like that — a movement was born.
Changing Lives Through the Game
LUFA’s greatest victories aren’t measured in medals, but in moments.
Like the time they took their young players to New Clark City to watch the Philippine Men’s National Team live. For many, it was their first time seeing professionals play. Wide-eyed and speechless, the children looked at the field — and saw their future.
Some kids now dream of representing the country. Others simply found a place to belong. Scholarships have opened doors for those who once couldn’t afford training. Parents have become believers — joining weekend scrimmages or cheering from the sidelines with newfound passion.
In a province once without football, La Union Football Academy has become a family.
Vision for the North
In the next three years, La Union Football Academy envisions a stronger ecosystem:
- Expanding training programs and coaching certifications.
- Building a regional futsal league to unite clubs across Region 1.
- Sustaining the annual LUFA Futsal Friendlies as a premier grassroots event in Northern Luzon.
But beyond plans and programs, Nate dreams of one thing — a true home for football in La Union.
A home where every child feels seen, where the sound of the ball echoes louder than doubt, and where community spirit turns into regional pride.
A Message to the Next Generation
“Fall in love with the ball first. Learn the game. Once you love it, everything else will follow.” Nate says.
OneFutbol’s Salute to LUFA
In a region once quiet for football, La Union Football Academy has become a heartbeat.
A light on the coast, guiding children toward dreams bigger than the sea beside them.
To Coach Nate and the LUFA family — your courage, passion, and belief are shaping the future of the game in the North.
OneFutbol proudly salutes LUFA — for proving that when football is built on love, community, and purpose, the beautiful game becomes truly unstoppable.
📣 Join the Movement
Follow and connect with La Union Football Academy:
📩 Email: futbol.launion@gmail.com
📞 Phone: 0917 898 3678
📍 San Juan, La Union
Facebook: La Union Football Academy
Club Chant:
“One, Two, Three — LUFA!”
