Chelsea Foundation’s International Department welcomed a small group of coaches from the United States of America for an exclusive coach education experience.
The group, which consisted of four coaches from Bay Lions in Miami, one from Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer and another from The Technical Institute in Houston, spent a number of days at Chelsea’s training ground and at Stamford Bridge.
The coaches were given a valuable insight into coaching across Chelsea FC’s men’s, women’s and Academy teams by participating in workshops, presentations and by observing a number of sessions, including an exclusive opportunity to watch the men’s first team squad train.
Chris Woodward, senior programme manager at Chelsea Foundation, said: ‘We were honoured to provide this coach education experience, a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, for coaches from Miami, Philadelphia and Houston to gain exclusive access to Chelsea Football Club.
‘The programme incorporated workshops and presentations delivered by various employees from across the club, along with observing a range of training and fixtures from across our male and female academy age groups. This enabled the group to get a true insight into the club and help aid their own personal coaching development.’
The group were also able to take part in a stadium tour at Stamford Bridge, along with watching Chelsea overcome Brighton & Hove Albion with an exciting 3-2 victory at the home of the Blues.
Lee Cullip, sporting director at The Technical Institute – Houston, Texas, said: ‘The educational experience was one of the highest quality educational events I have been involved in. The access was only matched by the information covering a vast array of topics by experts across Chelsea Foundation and Chelsea Football Club.
‘From player care and integration, recruitment to tactical workshops, there was information pertinent to any coach or sporting director and it was delivered in a fashion palatable to anyone involved in football at any level. I would highly recommend anyone in football to attend,’
Chelsea Foundation’s International Department are hosting another coach education experience between 12 and 17 December 2024.