Fifty area clubs are now taking part in Philadelphia Union's youth soccer partnership program for the 2011 season, the club announced today.

After a successful inaugural season, all 31 partner clubs returned for 2011 and 19 new youth clubs have come on board to further strengthen the Union's ties with the regional youth soccer community.

Building off of strong relationships established with the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Association, DYSA, YSC Sports and the South Jersey soccer community, partnerships have been forged with local area clubs that understand the value and unique benefits of partnering with a Major League Soccer club.

Developing relationships with local youth soccer programs has been an integral part of Philadelphia Union's strategy since the organization entered the market.

This approach hasn't changed in 2011 as support continues to grow throughout the youth soccer community.

New Philadelphia Union Youth Soccer Partners for 2011 (listed alphabetically by state):Pennsylvania Colonial Soccer Club Council Rock United Soccer Association Coventry Soccer Association FC Delco Lehigh Valley United FC Neshaminy United Soccer Club Ridley United Soccer Club Solebury SC Tredyffrin Easttown Youth Soccer Association Ukrainian Nationals Upper Dublin SC West-Mont United Soccer Association YMS

New Jersey Cherry Hill FC Mantua Twp SA Marlton Soccer Club Moorestown Soccer Club PDA