One of the most famous football clubs in England, has a long, unique and idiosyncratic history, and has experienced both the highs and the lows of the game.
From the glamorous, talented and flamboyant team which emerged in swinging London in the mid-1960s, to the financial and on-pitch woes that almost forced its extinction in the early 1980s. From the rejuvenated side of the mid-1980s that returned it to stability, to the cosmopolitan renaissance of the late-1990s, which saw it challenge for honours again, to a takeover in June 2003 which contributed to its current status as one of the dominant teams in the country and a new powerhouse in Europe.
Having won back-to-back leagues in 2005 and 2006, Chelsea finished behind Manchester United in 2007 and 2008, and third behind them and Liverpool in 2009. They won a cup double in 2007 and added the community shield, before finishing runners-up to Manchester United in the Champions League final in 2008. With an FA cup and community shield already in 2009, they will be looking for more success domestically and in Europe this season.
People to Watch: John Terry Frank Lampard Didier Drogba Michael Ballack Nicolas Anelka Petr Cech Michael Essien
Academy:
Chelsea's Academy teams train at the same venue as the First Team in the club's new state-of-the-art training ground in Cobham, Surrey. Cobham is considered to be one of the most ambitious investment undertaken by a football club, unifying all aspects of training and support services on one campus. The main building features the latest in training, rehabilitation, medical, pitch and media technology.
inspiresport groups train with Chelsea coaches at the Cobham training grounds, pitch availability permitting.
There are 38 grass pitches, indoor area and a brand new generation astro-turf. The facility is the envy of many professional clubs around the world.
Female Soccer: A strong Centre of Excellence for women's football and some key signings under the leadership of coach Shaun Gore have reinforced Chelsea FC's commitment to the female game. Chelsea Ladies' First team includes 5 International players. Caroline Collie was awarded 'Player of the Year' last season. The team competes in the FA Nationwide Premier league for women.
Chelsea work with inspiresport girls teams. For more information on how your school's girls team can benefit from coaching at Chelsea, give inspiresport a call.
Transport Access : The nearest tube station to Stamford Bridge is Fulham Broadway, on the District line. District line tubes run into Central London and provide easy access across the city.
Cobham is 30-40 minutes from central London and has good rail links to the capital.
Heathrow airport is a short journey down the A4, west of London. Gatwick airport is linked to central London by rail on the Gatwick Express and is only 30-45 minutes from Victoria.
Out and About: London is undoubtably one of the most exciting cities in the world. The great city has enjoyed a rich patchwork of history that is still evident and relevant in London today. In the last decade, the capital has modernised many of its famous landmarks and, buoyed by the arrival of the new millennium, added world renowned new features. The city now boasts the world's largest modern art gallery, Tate Modern, the tallest observation wheel - the London Eye and two striking new pedestrian bridges over the river Thames.
The city is also one of the world's great sporting capitals. London is home to no fewer than English Premiership footbal. Wembley, the mecca of English football has undergone complete remodernisation and reopened this summer. The historic Twickenham rugby stadium is also world-renowned. Wimbledon, as the only grass court tournament in the Grand Slam, is arguably the historic home of premier tennis.
London will play host to the 2012 Olympic Games. with five years to go and the city is already buzzing with excitement. Major legacy projects are underway in the east of the city, which will have a lasting impact on the quality of facilities and enthusiasm and participation in sport for the UK's young people.
Chelsea FC's training ground in Surrey is approximately 30-40 minutes' from Central London. Cobham is located in London's affluent, leafy periphery and is close to some of the country's most popular tourist attractions such as Hampton Court Palace, Windsor Castle, Eton and Legoland. Top sporting venues Wimbledon and Twickenham stadium are also close by.
We Recommend: The Rough Guide, London Walking London, Andrew Duncan
