Eastleigh FC are proud to announce the renewal of its partnership with the University of Southampton, reinforcing a shared commitment to expanding opportunities for women and youth footballers across the region.

Under the renewed agreement, the University will continue to support free coaching sessions delivered by the Spitfires at its facilities, building on the strong foundations laid since becoming the official sponsor of our Elite Development Squad last year.

Tom Coffey, Vice Chairman of Eastleigh FC, said: “We’re delighted that our partnership with the University of Southampton has been extended for another year. Over the past 18 months, we’ve found real synergy in our goals and motivations. Strengthening our presence in the community is hugely important to us, and working with the University enables us to make a positive and lasting impact.”

Expanding access to high-quality coaching

As part of the refreshed agreement, the University’s women’s football team will deliver community sessions, acting as role models and ambassadors for the sport. The partnership includes free Friday coaching sessions for women at the Silverlake Stadium, with additional subsidised children’s sessions set to run on Saturday mornings.

Phil Malatesta, Associate Director of Sport and Community Services at the University of Southampton, said: “Eastleigh shares our goal of bringing communities together through the love of football and physical activity. This renewed agreement will give women and children access to high-quality coaching and facilities, while supporting our civic mission to improve people’s lives.”

Student Hannah Warner, president of the University’s women’s club, added: “Our collaboration with Eastleigh extends far beyond the pitch. We’re proud to support free, high-quality coaching opportunities—the kind we would have valued ourselves growing up—and hope to inspire the next generation of female footballers.”

A growing partnership

Thanks to the agreement signed last year, the Eastleigh men’s first team and Development Squad continue to train at the University’s Wide Lane Sports Ground, which features a grass and cork all-weather pitch, a strength and conditioning unit, and a dedicated Eastleigh FC changing room.

The renewed partnership marks another important step in Eastleigh FC’s mission to grow its community presence, empower young players, and expand access to the game for women and families throughout the region.

For more information, visit eastleighfc.com or southampton.ac.uk/sport.