Dubai, November 2009: Volker Abramczik, former Schalke 04 and German Football League Player wowed children in a 4-day football camp held recently at Greenfield Community School, a Taaleem managed School.

The first of its kind, the 4-day camp was organised by Schalke 04' 'Knappenkids', a subdivision of the German football club, whose main aim is to not only teach children how to play football and to improve their skills and technique but also to appreciate the sport as a whole.

Bodo Menze, International Relations Manager Schalke 04, thanked everyone: " This is the first time ever that we conducted the Knappenkids Camp abroad and outside Germany . Our goal is to improve soccer skills for 8 to 12 year olds, to have everyone learn soccer, enjoy this game and of course the health aspect is a huge one.' He thanked the parents, the school for providing the pitch and other facilities plus Taaleem, through whom the initial contacts where established and who made it possible for this camp to happen.

On the first day of the camp, all students received a full kit consisting of shorts, socks, kneepads, caps, all-weather coat and more. The children were trained on different tactics, skills and  respecting each other throughout the game. The school's large football pitch was kitted with large Schalke banners, mini-goals and other professional training equipment to ensure a successful football camp.

On the last day, after the final matches, all students received a bag containing plenty of Schalke 04 goodies including a training book in English and German featuring tactical exercises, Schalke shawl, poster, stickers, Schalke badge and much more. In addition, every team received a trophy based on their performance during the main tournament.

The GCS students presented the Schalke Team with a book full of their own colourful Thank You notes. A representative from the German embassy brought original sweets from Germany and the day closed with a lavish buffet by the school's pool side.

Bodo Menze said:' We enjoyed the cultural exchange between the students and us. We would like to thank Mr Steiner  from the German Consulate for all his support and help; Volkswagen Middle East for providing us with team cars/transport during our stay and of course Taaleem and Greenfield Community School for their hospitality, professionalism and warm welcome.'