The New England Patriots opened their 2026 preseason schedule with a special guest list that included 100 members of the Chelsea, Massachusetts community. The invitation extended to Chelsea Public Schools students, Chelsea High School football players, and participants in the Chelsea Police Department's innovative Build the Base program, offering a memorable experience at Gillette Stadium on August 13, 2026.

This gathering at the Patriots' preseason opener represents more than a day at the football stadium. It marks the continuation of a growing partnership between the Patriots organization and the Chelsea community, one that began taking shape earlier in the summer when 25 Chelsea High School football student-athletes, accompanied by Head Coach David Roque and School Resource Officer Damian Strait, attended a Patriots practice session on August 1.

The connection between Chelsea and the Patriots runs through Officer Strait, who serves as both a School Resource Officer and the founder of the Build the Base program. This initiative focuses on creating positive opportunities for youth through strength training, conditioning, and physical fitness. Strait's dedication to Chelsea's young people opened the door for this extraordinary opportunity, demonstrating how local law enforcement can build bridges between communities and professional organizations.

"We are incredibly grateful to the New England Patriots for providing this special opportunity for our Chelsea students and community," said Dr. Almi G. Abeyta, Superintendent of Chelsea Public Schools. "Experiences like this create memories that our students will carry with them for years to come."

The Build the Base program has become a cornerstone of youth engagement in Chelsea. With support from the Chelsea Police Department, Chelsea Public Schools, and community partners, Strait organized two Build the Base Youth Camps during the February and April school vacation weeks. These camps focused on strength, conditioning, and discipline for high school students, providing structured activities during school breaks.

The work has continued throughout the summer, with Strait and Build the Base collaborating with Coach Roque on strength and conditioning programs designed to prepare the Chelsea High Red Devils for their upcoming football season. This partnership between law enforcement, education, and athletics creates a comprehensive support system for young athletes in the community.

City leaders have embraced these opportunities for Chelsea youth. "The City of Chelsea couldn't be more proud to partner with our Public Schools, Police Department, and New England Patriots to give our students this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," said Chelsea City Manager Fidel Maltez. "Chelsea youth need opportunities, especially ones that take them beyond Chelsea, and for that, we are grateful to the Patriots for continuing to do just that."

Chelsea Police Department Chief Keith E. Houghton echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of community policing initiatives like Build the Base. "The Chelsea Police Department is incredibly proud of our 'Build the Base' program and the strong partnership we share with the Chelsea Public Schools," Houghton said. "Providing our students and the CHS football team with the opportunity to attend the Patriots game is a wonderful testament to this collaboration."

The Patriots' commitment to community engagement extends throughout New England. The organization regularly hosts youth football clinics, partners with local schools, and provides access to professional sporting events for underserved communities. These efforts align with the team's broader mission to use the platform of professional sports to create positive change in the region.

For the Chelsea High football team, the experience comes at an opportune moment. Training camp began in August, with the Red Devils preparing for their season opener on September 11 at Lowell Catholic. The team's home opener follows on September 25 against Hamilton-Wenham at Chelsea High School.

The partnership between the Patriots and Chelsea reflects a growing recognition that professional sports organizations can play meaningful roles in community development. By providing access to experiences that might otherwise be unavailable, the Patriots are helping to inspire the next generation of athletes, students, and community leaders in Chelsea, Massachusetts. Read the full story in the Chelsea Record.