UEFA and EA SPORTS FC FUTURES lead innovative training sessions for Cologne's young footballers
vendredi 6 décembre 2024
Résumé de l'article
Over 50 boys and girls from Cologne and the surrounding area joined Germany legend Lukas Podolski in special football training sessions organised by UEFA and EA SPORTS FC as part of the joint FC FUTURES initiative, which is providing grassroots footballers and coaches across Europe with an innovative way to engage with the game.
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Corps de l'article
Cologne was the destination for the latest FC FUTURES event, where local children had the opportunity to take part in training sessions led by official UEFA and German Football Association (DFB) coaches. World Cup winner and local hero Lukas Podolski also joined the session, passing on some expert tips to the boys and girls.
This was the latest in a series of grassroots activities delivered as part of a multi-year partnership between UEFA and EA SPORTS, with the objective of supporting community-level football. The programme has reached over 170,000 participants since launching in 2023.
"It’s not just about discovering new stars for football, but also about empowering young people on their path – teaching them values like teamwork, discipline, and fairness. It’s a heartfelt mission for me to pass on and support this passion and belief."
How UEFA and EA SPORTS FC are supporting grassroots football
The partnership between UEFA and EA SPORTS FC has seen the creation of the FC FUTURES Academy, a freely accessible online library of drills and training practices currently available in six languages.
This library incorporates assets from EA SPORTS FC 25 to give players and coaches an innovative way to engage with the game and improve players’ skills. It has already been incorporated into the UEFA coach education programme for more than 50 national football associations in Europe and beyond.
"At UEFA, we believe that football should be accessible to all, and our partnership with EA SPORTS FC FUTURES is a testament to this vision," said Olivier Doglia, UEFA head of technical education & development. "Together, we are creating opportunities for young players to play football, learn new skills, and most importantly, enjoy the game. By integrating innovative tools and training resources, we are not only enhancing grassroots football but also inspiring the next generation to play and love the sport."
Inspiring young players in Cologne
This latest session in Cologne involved over 50 boys and girls from the area and took place at the impressive Strassenkicker Base, which has benefited from an official EA SPORTS FC FUTURES pitch. The pitch, located within the 5,000m² sports event hall, is in regular use, offering children and youth groups from the area the opportunity to attend training sessions and practise their skills.
Jennifer Schofield, EA SPORTS FC social impact lead, said: "The FC FUTURES event in Cologne was an incredible opportunity to support young grassroots talent and share the joy of the game. It was amazing to see the kids grow through the training sessions led by our dedicated coaches. The surprise appearance by Lukas Podolski made the day absolutely perfect—a moment the kids will surely never forget. This is exactly what FC FUTURES is all about: inspiring the next generation and celebrating the love for football."