11 of my squad are from my academy, it's fully upgraded and so I get 2 new players available every 12 days. One is world class with a special ability, 6 are scout (two have SA) and the other 4 are a couple of skill points off scout level.
I have plenty of 'greens' from watching vids so I can power train easily, and I tank every 3rd season to make sure my players can keep a decent level for a few years more than if you get promoted every year.
It's not for everyone, especially token buyers as it's just not worth the time and effort if you can just go out and buy 11 scouts every season, but the Academy works for me.