The club today announced a partnership with Hawaii’s leading youth soccer club Le Jardin Soccer Academy (LJSA).  The partnership, which marks the first time ever an EPL team has partnered with a Hawaii youth soccer club, is the sixth soccer program in Chelsea’s network of youth clubs across America.   Chelsea continues its commitment to developing soccer at all levels in the US by bringing youth tournaments, special training sessions and exchange programs to U.S. soccer clubs.

Le Jardin Soccer Academy debuted its new Chelsea-themed uniforms in the season opener on September 6 in Oahu.

The partnership further extends Chelsea’s commitment to developing soccer at all levels in the US by bringing youth tournaments, special training sessions and exchange programs for players and coaches to Hawaii’s elite soccer teams.

Chief Executive Peter Kenyon said: “Chelsea’s youth super club network supports grassroots soccer development in the US.  Our newest partnership with Le Jardin Soccer Academy extends that support to one of the elite clubs in Hawaii, providing training and support for young talent critical to the long-term development of the sport in America.  Grassroots programming is a central element in Chelsea’s commitment to develop soccer, combined with successful visits to America from our first team, such as this summer’s preseason tour and win in the World Football Challenge.”

Le Jardin Academy Head Master Adrian Allan said: “A main goal when we started the academy three years ago was to become the school of choice for students who want to earn soccer scholarships and be professional players.  This partnership propels us to achieving that goal.  For a club like Chelsea to come in and partner with us shows the quality, professionalism and drive of our academy.  This allows us to offer an even higher level of training to young players across the islands.”

Chelsea announced its first youth soccer club partnership with Capital Area Soccer League of North Carolina in July 2008.  Other Chelsea US super club partners include LAFC Chelsea in Los Angeles, Match Fit Chelsea of New Jersey and the Baltimore Bays.

Thanks to Michael for the heads up…..