Official release from New York City FC
New York City FC announced today that eight youth soccer organizations throughout greater New York City will serve as New York City FC's official affiliate clubs.
The affiliations with New York City FC will provide a clear pathway for the local youth soccer community to reach the highest level of competition, providing each with access to the invaluable resources and expertise of Major League Soccer's 20th team.
The Club also announced that Paul Jeffries, former director at Downtown United Soccer Club, will be named Director of Community Development. Jeffries will oversee all New York City FC's community engagement efforts, managing the Club's Community Soccer programs including coaching sessions, clinics and camps, as well as New York City FC's ongoing relationship with local youth and adult leagues across the five boroughs.
Forming official ties with these youth soccer organizations and appointing Jeffries to lead ongoing engagement efforts stays true to New York City FC's core mission of being committed and connected to the New York City community.
Through New York City FC's relationship with sister club Manchester City FC, the eight affiliate clubs will have the opportunity to work with renowned soccer coaches and training staff, providing expertise and resources from both organizations. From community programs, to youth development, scouting, coaching, sports science and first team football operations, the New York City area's youth soccer community will have an unprecedented level of access to world-class soccer expertise. Affiliate club coaches will also have the opportunity to learn at Manchester City Academy, and elite players will have the chance to play alongside some of the world's best up-and-coming talent at Manchester City's new state-of-the-art facility.
The eight affiliate clubs are:
- Blau-Weiss Gottschee - Downtown United Soccer Club - Manhattan Soccer Club - Metropolitan Oval - New York Soccer Club - South Bronx United
Each affiliate organization was chosen based on its strong quality of players, dedicated coaching staff and commitment to the New York City community. The selection of these eight clubs marks the first step in New York City FC's ongoing effort to deepen its connection to local youth organizations and to grow the Club's local affiliate network throughout the tri-state area.
Claudio Reyna, Sporting Director of New York City FC, added, "Through our affiliations with each of these organizations, we will play an integral role in the development of the area's most talented youth.
"After previously serving as Youth Technical Director for U.S. Soccer, I'm passionate about youth development and know firsthand what a critical role these programs can play in local communities, and in improving and advancing the level of coaching and talent across the country. And with the appointment of Paul, we'll be able to take a comprehensive approach in directly engaging our local communities and youth.
"We're thrilled to have a veteran like Paul at the helm of our community development efforts."
