The Rhode Island Reds Football Club have entered into a partnership agreement with West Ham United Football Club of the English Premiere League. The agreement comes as the Rhode Island Reds look to increase their footing in the Rhode Island soccer community and expand their academy.

“This is a great opportunity for not only the Reds but for players in Rhode Island, both male and female. This partnership allows us to showcase the best talent around to West Ham scouts so that our players can follow their dreams of playing professionally.” – Kabba Joof, Rhode Island Reds Owner.

Throughout their existence West Ham has become one of the top academies in England, producing such players as Frank Lampard, Rio Ferdinand, Bobby Moore, and Geoff Hurst. “West Ham has done amazing things with their academy system and we are looking to follow in their footsteps. When you look at all of the clubs in Rhode Island, none of them give their players the ability to go on and follow their dreams. That’s what the Reds are looking to do. Our goal is to develop a local under nine player through our academy system and help him or her achieve their dream of becoming a professional soccer player.” – Jonathan Fonseca, Rhode Island Reds President.

As the Reds look to expand their academy from just their current under seventeen and under nineteen boys teams the West Ham partnership adds more than just scouting. “Not only do our players get the chance to be seen by West Ham scouts, but our coaches get access to their training regiments. That means that our academy players will be doing the same drills that the players at West Ham do. We also have the ability to hold camps with West Ham coaches. It’s a partnership that is going to set our academy apart from others.” – Kabba Joof, Rhode Island Reds Owner.

“Last year we implemented a lot of changes at the Reds and this year will be no different. We are always looking to change and grow for the better of the club, players, and fans. As a front office we have set benchmarks for us to reach and I’m happy to say that we are in a great place. You can look forward to a breakout year for the Reds both on and off the field.” – Jonathan Fonseca, Rhode Island Reds President.

“You’re going to see a much different Reds than in years before, one that as a staff we are all excited about. We are here to make a stand as Rhode Island’s top soccer club, this partnership with West Ham is just a sign of things to come .” – Kabba Joof, Rhode Island Reds Owner.

To learn more about the Rhode Island Reds Football Club visit www.RIRedsFC.com