The 345 FC U10 football team recently concluded a successful tour of the United Kingdom, highlighted by a historic victory over Chelsea FC’s academy team — the club’s first win against a Class 1 academy team from one of England’s “Big Six” clubs since beginning its annual UK tours.
During the tour in April, the Cayman-based youth football team also recorded a win over a team from Tottenham Hotspur and secured a draw against Queens Park Rangers’ academy team.
The youth football team finished second overall at the Easter tournament hosted by Birmingham City FC.
“This group of boys competed against the best academy players in England and showed they could not only hold their own, but actually win,” 345 FC coach Peter Reijn said.
“Our players continue to show that with the right mindset, development and drive,
Cayman’s youth players can compete with anyone.”
In addition to the competitive fixtures throughout the week, the 345 FC team also
toured London’s world-renowned Wembley Stadium.
During the tour, a second 345 FC team made up of 20 youth football players born between 2012-2015 trained and played at Chelsea’s youth academy, exposing local players to world class facilities and training.
Inspired by a Dutch football vision, 345 FC has been helping to elevate youth football in the Cayamn Islands since its inception in 2017.
Participation in the 345 FC programme can also provide opportunities for talented youth footballers to play in Europe. Lawrence Maharaj, 12, a former 345 FC football player, recently signed with Leicester City FC academy.
