JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — As we inch closer to the Stateside Cup between West Ham United and the Wolves at EverBank Stadium, West Ham United teamed up with Armada FC for a training session for youth on our First Coast.
The event featured the new MLS NEXT Armada Pro Academy, which includes U16, U17, and U19 teams from our First Coast. They received training under the guidance of West Ham legends Anton Ferdinand and Jack Collison.
This is the first time these young future soccer stars had an up-close workout with the pros from West Ham United. We caught up with the Armada Pro Academy and the West Ham United legends about the privilege it is to work together.
"The coaching was second to none. I remember that being a big thing that stood out and a lot of those coaches that helped me from nine years old are still in my life today," said Anton Ferdinand, a former player for West Ham United. He's now an ambassador for the program.
Ryan Paul is part of the U19 Armada team. He said he appreciates the opportunity both, West Ham United and Armada FC provided for him and his colleagues.
"I love it. It helps me become a better player, it helps me get forward, it helps me get to the top goal which is the pros. That's what it will help me get to".
For more information on the Stateside Cup, click HERE.