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We spoke to organizers of the Bajaj- Allianz Junior Football Camp, asking them about the objective behind the camp, the difference they look to provide, and how their approach is different when compared to other such initiatives, as season 5 of the camp is now upon us.
Here are the excerpts from the conversation:
1. How different is the Bajaj Allianz camp compared to other such football initiatives taken by corporate organizations?
Bajaj Allianz is committed to make a significant contribution to the development of football in India. Unlike most other corporates we ensure we reach out the cities where the real talent is more often than not found – eg Imphal, Aizawl etc. Also we arrange training scholarships for the boys post their return.
2. Tell us about the kind of exposure the winners get in Germany.
The winners train under the official FC Bayern youth coaches at the clubs training grounds, right next to where the senior teams train. They also get a chance to interact with players of the senior team. Furthermore they get a chance to interact with other fellow winners from several countries across the globe.
3. How are the selected kids taken care at the camp in Munich?
They are all looked after at Munich by Allianz. No comfort is spared to ensure they can focus on football.
4. What are the biggest challenges of organising an initiative such as this?
Several logistic and on ground challenges are a part of organizing any campaign on this scale. But we leave no stone unturned to ensure that eventually the best boys travel to Germany.
5. The timing of your camp coincides with the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Do you think this will help increase the awareness and result in increased interest among kids for the sport?
Yes definitely, it will hopefully give the game a further boost and inspire young children to emulate the stars they are watching on TV
