Many might not know it, but the U.S. soccer system is growing a pretty rapid rate. From Clint Dempsey, to Jozy Altidore and Freddy Adu, the American soccer system continues to produce some of the top talent in the world. But aside from the talent currently playing on the big stage, the U.S. system has been desperate for a global football link that could really make the youth academies something special.
On Wednesday that wish became a reality.
The U.S. soccer system received word that they will be getting a huge boost from Chelsea Football Club that should allow the youth system to grow and develop exponentially over the coming years.
Chelsea announced that they are going to partner up with top youth clubs across America to develop Chelsea Soccer Schools, a new soccer tournament called the Chelsea Sevens, as well as coaching clinics and exchange programmes.
Chelsea FC Chief Executive Peter Kenyon said: “Our new Chelsea youth super club network is the latest of many strategic projects Chelsea have in the U.S.
“They are all designed to assist the growth and development of US soccer at the grass roots as well as the top level. The youth movement in the United States is a massive part of that.
Chelsea will start their grassroots campaign by building a strong relationship with the Capital Area Soccer League (CASL) of North Carolina.
“CASL is clearly one of the leading American youth football clubs and I am delighted they are the first to become part of this project,” said Kenyon.
Chelsea encountered the CASL organisation recently after the Chelsea Academy U-16 team lost to the CASL U-16 Academy team in the Final at Disney’s Soccer Showcase in Orlando in December 2007.
Chelsea first team players will also serve as special ambassadors to each youth club in the programme along, as well as former U.S. World Cup winner Lorrie Fair.
Chelsea’s commitment to further develop the U.S. youth game should only help America develop more Dempsey’s and Altidore’s in the coming years.