NAC Breda expands Zeeland regional hub and targets 20 partner clubs

NAC Breda is expanding its Regiohub Zeeland, a network designed to connect the club with amateur teams, local authorities, community organisations and businesses across the province. The initiative has already staged its first NAC SoccerCamps in Zeeland, involving coaches from the club’s academy.

The hub’s partner-club programme is also beginning to grow after coordinator Gert-Jan van Leiden visited amateur sides to explain the proposed collaboration. The first clubs have now joined, and NAC wants to increase the network to approximately 20 associations during the coming season. Support will be tailored to each club and could include help with youth development plans, coaching guidance or creating a safer sporting environment. NAC says it will work with the KNVB when providing that assistance.

Funding has been strengthened through backing from Zeeland-based partners, including Camping Den Inkel and Schipper Accountants. According to the club, those contributions will allow the project to develop over the next several years without placing additional pressure on NAC’s existing organisation.

The plans extend beyond football development. NAC and SportZeeland are examining with municipalities whether community programmes already used in Breda can be introduced locally, including activities for older people, school pupils and healthier lifestyles. Zeeland is the first regional hub, but NAC is also considering future networks around Bergen op Zoom and in the Belgian border area. The club is additionally exploring matchday initiatives that would give affiliated amateur teams a visible role around home fixtures.