First outing for Young Champions

The inaugural UEFA Young Champions grassroots event takes place in Gelsenkirchen on 22 May.

Grassroots jamboree
This UEFA-led initiative, supported by adidas, has seen an outstanding response with over 200 teams registering for the event within five weeks of the registration period commencing. The event is targeted towards the 10-16 age range, and aims to offer the opportunity to develop both skills and passion for the game in connection with UEFA's flagship club competition, the UEFA Champions League.

Caring for football
Erich Stamminger, a member of the board of adidas-Salomon AG, responsible for global marketing and president of adidas America, said: "adidas wants to be seen where the very best in football meet the very best. This is why we feel the Champions League is a natural place for our brand to be. However adidas supports football on every level, this is why we also continue to invest into the foundation the sport. We support a wide variety of grassroots events and tournaments around the globe, and we are happy to be the partner of the UEFA Young Champions."

Busy event
Gelsenkirchen and local club FC Schalke 04 are renowned for their passion for football, and are fitting hosts for this grass roots initiative. The event takes place at the club's training ground from 08:00 CET on Saturday, and features skills and coaching areas, a competition for three age groups - with the winners receiving Champions League final tickets - and the chance to see the European Champion Clubs' Cup itself on display.

World coverage
The event will also feature in the UEFA Champions League Weekly television programme, and as part of the Champions League news feature which is distributed to all rights holding broadcasters on a global basis.