The Mayor of London Boris Johnson has called on young Asian players to sign up for Chelsea's Search for an Asian Star event.
The lack of Asian players within affiliated football and the fact only seven players current play at a professional level has inspired Chelsea to create a groundbreaking scheme to identify talented players from Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi and Sri Lankan backgrounds.
The Mayor is fully behind the initiative: 'We may still be awaiting our first British Asian footballing superstar - but it is certainly not due to a lack of talent,' said Johnson.
'By focusing on developing the game amongst London's Asian communities, Chelsea FC are not only taking us a step closer to finding this superstar, they are also reinforcing the message that football - and sport in general - is for everyone. Just pull on your boots and get involved!'
Last season 350 players underwent a series of tests and practice matches in the Under 11, 12 and 13 age groups. The three winners were offered a week training and playing with Chelsea's Academy with two of the players going on to sign for professional clubs.
This season Chelsea has increased the number of age groups meaning that six players from U8 to U13 will win the chance to join the Chelsea Academy this summer.
Scouts and coaches from grass roots and professional clubs will also be invited along for the three-day event taking place at Cobham during May Bank Holiday and the Football Association will also be on hand to help players and their parents find clubs in their local area.
The lack of Asian players within affiliated football and the fact only seven players current play at a professional level has inspired Chelsea to create a groundbreaking scheme to identify talented players from Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi and Sri Lankan backgrounds.
The Mayor is fully behind the initiative: 'We may still be awaiting our first British Asian footballing superstar - but it is certainly not due to a lack of talent,' said Johnson.
'By focusing on developing the game amongst London's Asian communities, Chelsea FC are not only taking us a step closer to finding this superstar, they are also reinforcing the message that football - and sport in general - is for everyone. Just pull on your boots and get involved!'
Last season 350 players underwent a series of tests and practice matches in the Under 11, 12 and 13 age groups. The three winners were offered a week training and playing with Chelsea's Academy with two of the players going on to sign for professional clubs.
This season Chelsea has increased the number of age groups meaning that six players from U8 to U13 will win the chance to join the Chelsea Academy this summer.
Scouts and coaches from grass roots and professional clubs will also be invited along for the three-day event taking place at Cobham during May Bank Holiday and the Football Association will also be on hand to help players and their parents find clubs in their local area.
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