A few questions. Hope someone can help :)

[mmunger]

At early levels, yeah. But later on when the market isn't so easy to get good players you might find the Academy more useful.
I have several of my home grown players on my team. They are good players with consistent ratings, and fast trainers.

Around what level did you start getting players who were worth the investment?

[BridgeGoth]

Around what level did you start getting players who were worth the investment?

I'm level 12 and have never even thought of it. And many of my friends who are up to level 20 would say the same.

[Gert Funck]

Around what level did you start getting players who were worth the investment?

I am level 30, and I still can't see any advantages in buying academy players. I would rather buy a 4 star youngster at auction for a few tokens if i couldn't find a 5*. if they are high valued they are just as fast trainers