The American Soccer League (ASL) and Admiral announced a strategic partnership agreement aimed at further elevating soccer in the United States and developing opportunities for young players. The partnership makes Admiral the official sportswear provider and supplier for the ASL through 2018. Core to the new agreement is a dedicated focus on youth development and programming to help shape the future of soccer in North America.
“The United States has the highest youth participation in soccer anywhere in the world,” said Admiral Sports CEO Paul Hamburger. “But many of the best players drift to other sports after high school. The ASL is helping to attract and keep the most talented youth players excited about soccer and the professional game in the U.S. We share a vision with the ASL to provide opportunities for players to develop in a professional environment en route to higher leagues in North America and beyond. We’re excited to be outfitting all the league’s teams and supplying the league’s official match ball.”
“We’re delighted to have the support and commitment of Admiral,” said ASL Chief Executive Officer Matt Driver. “They are supporting youth and professional soccer throughout North America, and they see the ASL as a key part of their growth plans. Our partnership with Admiral is a statement of support by the oldest and most iconic soccer brand in the world. Their product, like ours, is unique. They’re developing custom teamwear and merchandise for every team in the league.”
Admiral has earned a reputation as one of the most iconic kit manufacturers having been supplied the England national football team along with clubs such as Manchester United. Today, Admiral works with over 60 professional teams throughout North America, to create custom team uniforms and merchandise that uniquely brand club partners. The new kit designs will be revealed prior to the start of the ASL season in August.
The league has carefully planned for strategic growth in other parts of the U.S. in 2015 and beyond, creating a national footprint for player development and sustainability. The league recently accepted its ninth team with plans to cap the number of teams at 12 for the 2014 season.
