This visit provided a unique opportunity for participants to develop their skills under the guidance of Chelsea Foundation coaches, alongside a former Chelsea Foundation staff member, James Hagerty, who now leads programmes at Total Soccer. Hagerty began his journey in 2009 as a part-time coach with the Chelsea Foundation, eventually taking on full-time roles that saw him establish and manage programmes in Korea, Thailand, and Singapore.

‘I learnt so much in my time at Chelsea from trying to increase participation, access and opportunity to all,’ he reflected.

‘Being able to come to Chelsea and train with the Foundation coaches, play at Cobham and to share the space with the professionals is an experience that the children will remember forever.’

The visit also offered a special opportunity for the players' families to learn about the Chelsea Academy player pathway and the demands of training at this elite level.

Looking back on his time at Chelsea, James expressed his appreciation for the unique atmosphere at Cobham, a place he was delighted to share with the Total Soccer group. Most importantly, he looks forward to maintaining a long-term partnership between Total Soccer and Chelsea Foundation.

‘Having worked with the Chelsea Foundation for so long and knowing the fantastic work delivered, this will be the beginning of what I hope to be a long term partnership,’ he concluded.

Chris Woodward, senior programme manager at Chelsea Foundation, said: ‘Our main objective in delivering these group visits is to provide an authentic Chelsea experience whilst supporting the participants individual learning and development.

‘All players took part in a competitive programme against local clubs and Chelsea FC development squads, observing sessions and taking part in a player workshop on individual development. All players had an amazing experience and we are looking forward to collaborating with Total Soccer in the near future.’