R&F Soccer School plans to recruit youngsters nationally

The R&F Soccer School, jointly developed by Guangzhou R&F Properties and English Premier League giant Chelsea FC, plans to boost its enrollment by recruiting more young players nationwide this year.

The soccer school, in Meizhou, Guangdong province, will recruit up to 210 young students in September.

Three coaches from Chelsea Foundation and 10 Chinese coaches are currently working with 134 9- to 12-year-olds, providing academic education and first-class technical training as they learn to play "the Chelsea way".

Meizhou, in the eastern mountainous region of Guangdong, is referred to as the home of Chinese soccer, and Guangzhou R&F Properties has worked with the local government since 2011 to try to establish a local dedicated soccer school.

Ian Woodroffe, international development manager of Chelsea Foundation, said the school also is planning a June visit to London for 16 of the students and further work in the local community.

"We want to recruit more players, refine the training program and get the children playing more competitive games," he said.

"We are also looking at extending the program up to Under-13s and want to share and expand our knowledge with the wider community, not just those who attend the school."