Brentford to showcase partnership with Swarm FC at the United Soccer Coaches Convention | OneFootball

Brentford will be at the United Soccer Coaches Convention (USCC) in Chicago this week, showcasing the club's partnership with Swarm FC to the football community in the United States.

Club ambassador Marcus Gayle will represent the Bees and promote the opportunities with this transatlantic project.

The partnership between Brentford and Swarm FC was announced in the US in May 2024. Working with Intrepid Sports Group, it is built around Southern Soccer Academy Swarm FC (SSA Swarm FC), a dominant youth football programme based in Georgia.

With over 12,000 players across 600 teams, it aligns with Brentford’s player development and scouting plans, offering opportunities for players and coaches alike.

Ultimately, it will pave the way for the most talented young players involved to potentially join the west Londoners and play in the Premier League.

The partnership aims to create a network of youth football clubs in the United States, combining Brentford’s experience with Swarm FC’s local influence, coaching staff and growing player pool.

It will focus on developing player pathways, implementing a coach education programme and organising international visits, with Brentford providing opportunities for select players to train in the UK.

Lee Dykes, Brentford's director of football, said: “Swarm FC represents an exciting and innovative opportunity in US soccer.

"We are excited to announce our partnership and collaborate with Intrepid Sports and Southern Soccer Academy to bring our collective vision to life. Through Swarm FC, we are taking the first steps to create a platform and pathway for the development of players across the US.

"As we have seen with the signing of Julian Eyestone, there is a very clear pathway for young players to make the step from North America to the English Premier League and we are thrilled that Simon and his team will be helping us identify and develop more players like Julian in the future through Swarm FC."

Held at the McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago, the USCC is an important event for football professionals in the US, featuring coaching demonstrations, networking opportunities, and the latest in sports technology.

Led by executive director Simon Davey, Swarm FC will host an exhibition booth throughout the convention, offering visitors a chance to find out more about the club and the partnership.

Marcus Gayle will be in attendance, too, sharing stories from his playing career and providing insight on his role as a club ambassador.

Meanwhile, Megan Bespolka, the club's international marketing manager, will lead discussions on Brentford’s international marketing efforts and the Bees' work with supporter groups in the US.

Simon Davey, executive director of Swarm FC, said: “Since my arrival in the US in 2012, the vision has been to establish a club equipped with the players, staff, facilities, and programmes that provide a genuine pathway from recreational soccer to the professional level. This partnership with Brentford FC allows us to take that vision to the next level.”

“Our collaboration with Brentford FC underscores our commitment to excellence. Together, we’re providing US-based players with pathways to achieve their dreams, whether it’s a college placement or professional soccer. The Swarm FC model isn’t just about creating a soccer club; it’s about building a legacy for players, coaches, and communities.”

For more information about Swarm FC, contact Simon Davey.

Visit Booth #1276 at the United Soccer Coaches Convention in Chicago on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Brentford FC & Swarm FC – Swarm Together.