The Louisville City FC and Racing Louisville FC Academy is expanding its reach thanks to a fully integrated partnership with Oldham Soccer Club announced Wednesday.

As of July 1, the youth development arm of Louisville’s pro soccer teams will newly operate under what’s known as LouCity Oldham/Racing Louisville Oldham Youth Soccer. The move is being made with a goal to enhance and build the soccer community in Oldham County, providing programming from the U-5 through U-19 levels.

“We are excited to formally expand our partnership with Oldham Soccer Club and the Oldham community,” said Mario Sanchez, director of the LouCity and Racing academies. “We would like to acknowledge the work and dedication that people like Gerry Bradley, Rock Thompson, Joe Jessop and previous directors have done over the years to provide Oldham County families with a positive soccer experience.

“This partnership aligns with our mission and vision of growing the sport as well as providing a positive playing experience by maximizing individual potential through best practices, proven process and an aligned culture.”

Under the new agreement, the LouCity and Racing Academy will assume leadership in all facets, including both the recreation and select soccer programs.

The soccer park at 4305 W. Highway 146 in Buckner, Ky., will continue to serve as the main location for soccer programming with the 501(c)(3) Oldham County Youth Soccer Association providing upkeep and maintenance.

“This is a great day for soccer in Oldham County,” said Bradley, Oldham Soccer Club’s president. “The professionalism that the LouCity and Racing organization brings will elevate the game to a new level in this county and beyond. The mission and vision of both organizations are perfectly aligned, and the beneficiaries will be the players and families of Oldham County.” 

Jessop, the current director of coaching for Oldham Soccer Club, is set to remain on board working under Sanchez.

“I’m really excited about furthering our partnership with the LouCity and Racing Academy,” Jessop said. "Our players are always our No. 1 priority, and with this they will become part of an exemplary organization. Players will see their opportunities grow as well as receive a high level coaching curriculum that starts with the LouCity and Racing professionals and runs all the way down through their academy.

“Likewise, our coaches will be provided with an opportunity for growth and constant education that will benefit both them and the players. I’m looking forward to seeing our fields filled with Louisville City and Racing Louisville jerseys.”

Players, coaches and volunteers will adopt the LouCity/Racing playing curriculum and ultimately take a spot within the clubs’ pathway to pro. The youth academy operates with a vision to develop more professional, collegiate and national team players than any peer in the U.S.

“For more than 40 years, the Oldham County Youth Soccer Association/Oldham Soccer Club has served all levels of youth players and their families in the Oldham and surrounding communities,” said Thompson, treasurer of Oldham Soccer Club.

“We are very pleased that this partnership will provide our recreational and select level players with expanded opportunities, and will offer an expertise and excitement that only Louisville City and Racing Louisville FC can.”