With summer only just winding down, it’s hard to believe our October half-term camps are less than two weeks away! This season, we’re excited to be kicking off October with our first ever half-term Chelsea FC Foundation football camp; offering a brand new, revamped 3-day timetable. The streamlined course is not only the perfect taster for children curious about a career in football, but ideal for children rejoining us from previous seasons looking to top up and refresh their skills. Our summer programme centered on a different footballing superstar each day, taking inspiration from the professionals through a series of workshops, team tournaments and drills. The feedback we received was that children loved learning from their heroes so our October timetable will be structured around 3 new Chelsea FC stars. Each with their own unique skillset and playing style, children can learn about the different positions that make up a successful team and discover for themselves which playing style it is that they’re most suited to.  Our three Superstars for October are; defender- Cezar Azpilicueta, tactical winger- Callum Hudson-Odoi and Lionesses forward, Fran Kirby. So, who are they and how will we be channeling their talent and tenacity on camp this October?

 
Fran Kirby   

As well as being a world-class striker, Fran Kirby’s influence extends beyond the pitch. Having spoken candidly about a range of important issues such as gender, mental health and self-esteem, Kirby has contributed to a raised awareness of equality in football, as well as a drive in Women’s football as a mainstream sport. Drawing on Kirby’s positive impact, we are excited to be running a new workshop on Diversity this October. Educating children on this important aspect of the game, we’ll be encouraging new perspectives and critical reflection as we discover to what extent these external pressures can affect performance. 

Callum Hudson-Odoi 

Children will aim to improve their ball mastery skills in these sessions, to imitate the speed and agility that Callum moves at. Being able to move at speed and maneuver the ball, whilst still under control is a key component to success within the game. 

Cesar Azpilicueta 

Children can learn how to defend like the fast-footed Azpilicueta through a series of drills on defending and passing. Invasion games will encourage children to develop defensive skills within game situations, whilst Chelsea FC Foundation trained coaches will teach them strategic methods to defend when outnumbered.  

Take a look at the full timetable here