CHICAGO (Dec. 4, 2014) – The Chicago Fire Soccer Club today announced the first academy level partnership with FC United. This new program was designed with the goal of furthering the Fire’s relationship with elite youth soccer clubs that have a historic connection of supporting the Fire Academy program. Over the past eight years, FC United has provided a direct pathway to the Fire organization for their top talent and has seen ten players join the Fire Academy since 2007, including rookie Homegrown midfielder Chris Ritter.
An eight-year member of Trevian Soccer Club and FC United prior to joining the Fire Academy in 2008, Ritter made his professional debut when he started against the LA Galaxy on June 1. The Winnetka, Ill. native started eight of his ten appearances during the 2014 campaign.
“FC United has long been recognized as a leader in the development of young soccer players,” said Fire Academy Director Larry Sunderland. “This affiliation brings together two clubs that share similar core values and a common mission to provide its players the most cutting edge soccer education available. As we continue to document and share ‘The Fire Way,’ I look forward to developing best practices and exploring new coaching methodologies with our friends at FC United.”
This partnership will connect the Fire with FC United players, coaches and parents through a variety of programming, including access to the club’s player development curriculum, “The Fire Way”, coaching and player clinics conducted by Fire Academy staff and the opportunity for a private training day at Toyota Park which includes the chance to watch a first team training session.
Additional benefits consists of grassroots marketing initiatives designed to connect members of the two clubs including discount days at the Chicago Fire Fan Shop, player and Sparky appearances at club events and other collaborative efforts to grow and foster the relationship.
“Trevian Soccer Club and FC United are proud to be recognized by the Chicago Fire Academy as a leader in developing young men and women to reach their full potential as soccer players,” said Roy Wiggemansen, executive director of Trevian Soccer Club and FC United. “I’m looking forward to working with Larry Sunderland to develop this program so that all players and coaches in our club will benefit from this great opportunity. The affiliation with the Fire Academy will continue to expose our club to the best coaching methodologies and soccer education available.”
ABOUT TREVIAN SOCCER CLUB & FC UNITED
Located in northern Illinois, Trevian Soccer Club (U-8 through U-11 age groups) and FC United (U-12 through U-18 age groups) will partner with the Fire. For tryout information for the Trevian/FC United Soccer Club, please visit www.treviansoccerclub.com or www.fcunitedpremier.com.
