Introducing: Talent ID Day at Nike Football Camps with Chelsea FC

For ambitious young footballers dreaming of playing at the highest level, the Chelsea FC Talent ID Day is a game-changing addition to the 2026 football camps. Hosted at the home of the World Champions at Cobham Training Ground, this exclusive experience gives players a rare insight into the world of elite player development. 

On Talent ID Day, participants take part in dynamic coaching sessions led by Chelsea FC coaches, designed to challenge and inspire across every area of the game. From technical skills to tactical awareness, players are pushed to perform at their best while learning from some of the brightest minds in youth football. 

A key highlight of the day is the structured skills test, where players will benchmark their performance against players currently in the Chelsea FC Academy. This unique experience allows young athletes to see exactly where they stand, learn where they can improve, and gain invaluable insight into what it takes to reach the next level. Players who stand out across the week - achieving high scores in the skills test, performing strongly in training and matches, and demonstrating excellent attitude and sportsmanship - will be invited back to Cobham later in the year for a special follow-up event. There, they’ll have the chance to train again with Chelsea FC coaches and showcase their talent directly to the club’s Talent ID team.

To complement the on-pitch challenge, a member of the talent ID team will share expert advice on how young talent can stand out to professional scouts. From mindset to training habits, this insider knowledge gives players a real edge as they pursue their football dreams. 

The day concludes with an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Cobham training facility, offering a glimpse into the environment where Chelsea FC’s stars train, develop, and prepare for the professional game. It’s an inspiring part of a day designed to motivate, educate, and ignite the ambitions of every player. 

With the introduction of Talent ID Day, the 2026 Chelsea FC football camps are not just a chance to improve your game - they’re an opportunity to experience the elite pathway up close, challenge yourself, and imagine what it takes to play at the top level. For any young player aiming to push themselves and learn from the best, this is a day not to be missed. 

Nike Football Camps with Chelsea FC offer young footballers the chance to train with professional coaches from one of the world’s top clubs. The camps combine expert coaching, technical drills, tactical sessions, and competitive match play to help athletes develop their skills, confidence, and understanding of the game. With small group training, world-class facilities, and a focus on teamwork and personal growth, our football camps provide an unforgettable experience that inspires young players to reach their full potential. Camp are available for boys aged 10-17 and girls aged 12-17.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the Chelsea FC Talent ID Day?

  The Talent ID Day is a new and exclusive addition to the 2026 Chelsea FC football camps. Hosted at the Chelsea FC Training Ground, it gives young players the chance to benchmark their performance against Academy players, and gain insight into what it takes to reach the elite level of the game.

• Who can take part in the Talent ID Day?

  All players attending Nike Football Camps with Chelsea FC will take part in the Talent ID Day. It’s designed for ambitious and young footballers who want to challenge themselves, develop their game, and experience the standards of a professional academy environment at Chelsea’s renowned Cobham Training Ground.

• What happens if a player performs well during the Talent ID Day?

  Players who excel throughout the week - achieving top scores in the structured skills test, performing strongly in training and matches, and demonstrating a positive attitude and sportsmanship - will be invited back to Cobham later in the year for an exclusive follow-up event. This second session offers the chance to train once again with Chelsea FC coaches and showcase their abilities directly to the club’s Talent ID team.

  
  Please note: The second session at Cobham is not included in the Nike Football Camps package. Travel and any related expenses are not covered. If a player is invited to attend this additional session, they will be responsible for arranging their own transport to and from Cobham, as well as covering all associated costs.

• What makes the Talent ID Day at Cobham such a unique opportunity?

  The Talent ID Day provides a first-hand access to the player development pathway at Chelsea FC - a premium opportunity that sets it apart from other residential Premier League football camps in the UK. Beyond the on-pitch training, players will hear directly from a senior member of the Talent ID team about what professional scouts look for, and enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of Cobham, where Chelsea’s top players train and prepare for competition. It’s a truly one-of-a-kind experience designed to inspire and motivate the next generation of football talent.

  Interested in Talent ID Day at Cobham? Book your football camp today.

Meet Eric Boateng: Director of Basketball at Nike Sports Camps

Eric Boateng brings elite-level experience and infectious enthusiasm to his role as Basketball Director at Nike Basketball Camps. A former British Olympian and professional player with a career spanning the NBA, NCAA Division I, and top leagues across Europe and South America, Eric has competed at the highest levels of the game - including representing Team GB at the London 2012 Olympics.

Today, he channels that experience into inspiring the next generation of players, overseeing coaching teams across all camp venues and leading weekly masterclasses. Known for his energy, positivity, and fun coaching style, Eric is passionate about helping every young player work hard, build confidence, and discover a lifelong love for basketball.

We caught up with Eric to hear more about his journey in basketball, what makes the Nike Basketball Camps so special, and his advice for players joining our programmes.

1. Can you share a bit about your journey in basketball – how did you first get into the sport, and what made you fall in love with it?

I was a tall and rather gangly kid growing up, and someone in my community who was involved in basketball encouraged me to give the sport a try. From my very first session, I was hooked. I loved that it was played indoors - I still remember being struck by the gleam of the wooden floor, the bright lights, and the sound of the ball echoing around the court as it bounced from one player to another. There was something about that rhythm and energy that instantly drew me in.

2. What inspired you to transition from playing to coaching, and what have been some highlights in your coaching career so far?

Basketball has given me so much - fun, life lessons, friendships, and incredible experiences - that I felt a strong sense of responsibility to give back and share what I’d learned. Coaching felt like the natural next step. One of my proudest moments so far has been leading my team to victory in the Nike Basketball UK Tournament Championship last summer. That group was really special, and watching their hard work pay off was unforgettable.

3. What sets the basketball programme at Nike Basketball Camps apart from other youth basketball programmes?

All of the sports at Nike Sports Camps are fantastic, with exceptional coaches and talented players, but what really sets the basketball programme apart for me is the sense of community that develops. The drills, games, and team challenges are designed not only to build skills but also to encourage bonding and teamwork. By the end of the week, players have formed real connections both on and off the court.

4. Can you walk us through a typical day on camp – what can players expect from the training sessions and activities?

Players can expect a balance of structure, challenge, and fun. Each day is designed to help them grow stronger and fitter, refine their individual skills and fundamentals, and then apply those skills within a team setting. We also provide plenty of opportunities for players to put what they’ve learned into practice during real-time competitions and scrimmages - that’s where the learning really comes to life.

5. What skills or qualities do you focus on developing in players during camp, both on and off the court?

We aim to develop well-rounded players - athletes who are not only technically skilled but also great teammates. We distinguish between different ages and experience levels by offering two programmes: Development Camps for younger players and Advanced Camps for older ones. That way, the coaching team can ensure that players are appropriately challenged for their level. We cover all the basketball fundamentals, from ball-handling and shooting to defence and game awareness. Personally, I love teaching footwork and finishing around the rim. Off the court, we focus just as much on leadership, communication, and confidence - qualities that carry far beyond basketball.

6. What do you enjoy most about working at Nike Basketball Camps, and what keeps you coming back each summer?

What I love most is the journey we all go on together - coaches and players alike. Every summer brings a new mix of personalities, talents, and stories, and it’s incredible to watch how much everyone grows throughout the week. We all share the same passion and curiosity for basketball, and that creates a really special atmosphere. Seeing players smile, gain self-belief, and find confidence in themselves is what keeps me coming back year after year.

7. Is there a particular moment or memory from past camps that stands out to you as especially rewarding?

Fridays are always my favourite. At the end of each week, we take time to reflect on everything the group has achieved - celebrating individual and team progress and recognising everyone’s efforts. There’s a real sense of pride and camaraderie in those moments, and knowing the weekend excursions are ahead makes it even better!

8. What advice would you give to a player coming to camp for the first time?

First of all, recognise how special and brave it is to come to a residential camp - stepping away from home and diving into something new is a big achievement in itself. There are so many opportunities to learn about yourself, meet new people, and grow in a fun, supportive environment. And if you’re nervous on day one, start by chatting with someone in the dining hall - it’s a great place to make friends!

9. What’s one key mindset or approach that can help players get the most out of their time on camp?

Unpack, settle in, and get comfortable as soon as you arrive. The days go by so quickly, and the more you immerse yourself from the start, the more you’ll get out of the experience. Embrace every drill, game, and conversation - you’ll be amazed at how much you learn and grow.

Closing Thoughts

Eric’s passion for developing young players and creating a positive, high-energy environment is at the heart of the Nike Basketball Camps experience. Whether it’s through challenging drills, inspiring team talks, or the teamwork shown during games, his goal is always the same - to help every player leave camp more confident, more skilled, and more in love with the game than when they arrived.