Our Mission
Athletics Academy coaches are strong, positive role models who nurture and inspire young athletes, supporting them in pursuing their passion through high-quality training, in a family-focused environment.
What We Do
Athletics Academy provides specialised track & field athletics, triathlon training, run squads and endurance sessions for children ages 3 – 18; from serious track & field athletes to hardcore triathletes, to those just looking to keep fit.
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We are passionate about helping children grow and making an impact…
Our Values
Determination: We know how to fail but we never give up…
Grit: We have the desire needed to succeed…
Excellence: We are motivated to be the very best we can be…
Passion: We love what we do…
Our Coaches…
At Athletics Academy, we take pride in our phenomenal team of coaches who are all qualified PE and Primary teachers and hail from across the United Kingdom and Ireland. Their diverse backgrounds in a wide array of sporting disciplines is what makes us who we are.
Samir Yousuf
Founder & Owner at Athletics Academy
Samir is the visionary founder of Athletics Academy and established the institution in 2015 with a clear mission: to nurture young talent and elevate the standards of athletic training in Abu Dhabi. His incredible foresight and relentless dedication have transformed the academy into a powerhouse of youth sports, now serving over 200 athletes across four locations. With a team of 15 expert coaches, Samir continues to lead with passion and innovation, creating an environment where children thrive in Track & Field, Triathlon, Middle Distance Running, and Sprint Training. His commitment to excellence has not only built the academy’s reputation but continues to inspire the next generation of athletes.
Mike Crawford
Managing Director
My Name is Coach Mike and I have been a coach at Athletics Academy since 2022. I grew up in Leeds where sport and athletics had a huge importance throughout my childhood, this was where I developed my overall physical fitness but also a number of other skills such as discipline, self-confidence and accountability, qualities I have carried with me still to this day.
Sprinting events have always been my passion, as it is a moment when you work at your maximum and push your body to its limit! I competed in a number of events throughout my adolescence, but the highlight was when I went to Germany to compete and represent Leeds in the 100m and 200m events. My inspiration and lasting memory is sprint legend Usain Bolt, his performance and dominance in the London 2012 Olympic Games is something I will always remember. The way that he broke world records with ease was a historical moment that the whole world will remember and reminisce through his lasting legacy. It was from this moment, that I was inspired to coach and help others reach their full potential.
Joanne
Administrator at Athletics Academy
Joanne has been the main administrator for Athletics Academy since its founding in 2015, playing a vital role in its continued growth and success. Always available to assist with athlete registrations, Joanne is committed to ensuring a smooth experience for all families. If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to get in touch with her directly.