The English Football League has announced that sportswear company, Puma UK Ltd, will become its first ever Official Technical Partner in a contract which will run until 2009, the Soccer Investor reported (21 Dec). Puma is expected to contribute to the Football League’s youth development program. Firstly, as a sponsor partner to the Football League Youth Alliance and secondly, through the provision of complimentary, market-leading football boots to the 1,100 apprentice players (aged 16-18) on the books of League clubs.
The Football League Youth Alliance consists of a League and Cup competition for apprentice players from the under-18 age group. Football League clubs operate 22 Academies and 47 Centres of Excellence, enabling more than 8,700 young players to receive professional coaching from 2,200 trained staff at their local Football League club.
Puma will also lend its support to a number of other League initiatives including the BT Community Cup and BT Girls Cup as well as clubs’ Football League in the Community programs, through the provision of high-class football equipment.
The Football League Youth Alliance consists of a League and Cup competition for apprentice players from the under-18 age group. Football League clubs operate 22 Academies and 47 Centres of Excellence, enabling more than 8,700 young players to receive professional coaching from 2,200 trained staff at their local Football League club.
Puma will also lend its support to a number of other League initiatives including the BT Community Cup and BT Girls Cup as well as clubs’ Football League in the Community programs, through the provision of high-class football equipment.