The Philadelphia Union in Chester is partnering with an inner city soccer program to bring more youth to soccer and generate future fans for the major league team, writes John George for Philadelphia Business Journal.

The Philadelphia Union Foundation and The SWAG are setting up youth soccer clinics.

The hope is to instill a passion for soccer among vulnerable youth while offering them healthier lifestyles and access to educational and collegiate scholarships.

The SWAG began in 2018. It’s a free 47-week annual soccer training program for athletes ages four to eight.

It focuses on African American and immigrant communities in Philadelphia now dominated by basketball and football.

The partnership will allow Philadelphia Union coaches and players to serve as role models for inner-city youth.

“Through this new partnership, we hope we can grow a love for soccer, while expanding our reach and impact in the community,” said Paul Howard, executive director of the Philadelphia Union Foundation

Their first joint community-focused clinic, Starter Day, is this evening , 5 to 7,  at Conservatory Field on West Chester Pike in Upper Darby.

Read more at Philadelphia Business Journal about this new youth soccer partnership.