Chelsea Joins Forces With Loughborough University

Chelsea Football Club and Loughborough University London have announced a three-year strategic partnership that will see the two organisations work together on research, internships, player aftercare and engagement activities.

As well as undertaking collaborative research projects utilising the university’s range of PhD and Masters-level researchers, its Institute for Sport Business will also establish a structured learning programme both for former Chelsea Academy players transitioning away from the professional game as part of the aftercare programme, and for players to undertake short courses and university study.

Professor James Skinner, director of the Institute for Sport Business and the associate dean for enterprise at Loughborough University London, said: “Loughborough, as the number one university for sport in the world, is delighted to be entering into this partnership with Chelsea Football Club, one of the most recognised and respected football clubs globally.

“Having a strategic partnership with a Premier League football club of the calibre of Chelsea allows us to work collaboratively on innovative research projects and provide unique learning opportunities for our students and Chelsea players. I look forward to developing the partnership over the next three years.”

Neil Bath, head of youth development at Chelsea said: “We are excited to be working closely with Loughborough, utilising their research and academic expertise to help evolve our current youth development programme, as well as support the ongoing education of our academy players and the post-football careers of those moving out of the game.”

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