Major League Soccer today announced that the League has renewed its strategic partnership with MLS Camps. As the soccer division of North American Sports Camps, MLS Camps has become the United States' largest camp provider largely due to the strength and professional credibility gained through its exclusive relationship with Major League Soccer. The partnership announcement comes on the heels of the 2005 MLS SuperDraft presented by adidas held Friday, January 14 in Baltimore during the annual National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) Convention.
MLS Camps, the Official Camp and Clinic of Major League Soccer, annually connects with over 270,000 youth participants in 1,100 communities across the United States. The camps feature MLS-themed curriculum, MLS Stadium Graduation Ceremonies, and companion vouchers to MLS games. In addition, campers typically receive an MLS Camps branded soccer ball, t-shirt, and personalized evaluation.
"MLS Camps is the global leader in providing fun and accessible soccer education to aspiring youth players. Even as Major League Soccer welcomes the next generation of stars from the 2005 SuperDraft, the League is committed to expanding opportunities for children of all ages and abilities to play soccer," said David Wright, Major League Soccer Senior Director of Partnership Marketing. "Our partnership with MLS Camps allows MLS to directly impact hundreds of thousands of youth players in this country, building their fan affinity for the sport and our league."
In addition to forming a strategic multiyear alliance with the League, MLS Camps has partnered with the National Soccer Coaches Association of America to train MLS Camps coaches to teach the NSCAA State, Regional and National Youth Diploma coaching courses. In exchange, MLS Camps Staff will receive NSCAA coaching education including State and Regional Diplomas along with National, Advanced National and Premier Diploma certification.
"Major League Soccer represents the highest level of soccer in the United States and as the country's top-flight League, it is an aspirational destination point for countless children who grow up playing the sport," said Gary Russell, MLS Camps CEO and owner. "By partnering with MLS and the NSCAA, MLS Camps is ensuring that both the best professional soccer players and college and youth coaches in the United States are playing a pivotal role in our mission to provide quality soccer education to young fans and athletes while helping them reach their potential."
