VALE DO Lobo has been chosen by the English Football Association as the location for the national team’s training base camp in May, ahead of this summer’s World Cup in Germany.
“The FA considered several other locations before deciding on Vale do Lobo,” revealed head of communications, Adrian Bevington. “But Vale do Lobo offers everything that the squad will require. The accommodation is of an extremely high standard and, with the training pitch on site, it should work very well for the team. Another key attraction is the coastal location for the players’ families.”
A reassuring factor may have been Vale do Lobo’s lengthy experience in organising specialised training and incentive events, notably having hosted UK premiership team Manchester United last June for a similar event. The team’s players, trainers and families spent a week at the Algarve resort, where the core element was daily training sessions at the specially conditioned Vale do Lobo football pitch, with warm-up in the setting of the Ocean Golf Course and weight training in a purpose-built gymnasium. Of equal importance within the programme was relaxation for the players and their families, with unlimited use of the resort’s beach, sports and wellness facilities.
The formula clearly proved successful, as it is to be echoed by the England team from May 15 to May 20. “It is important that the players have a relaxing, enjoyable time during their first week of preparation, as this will set a positive tone for the tournament,” said England manager, Sven-Göran Eriksson.
Vale do Lobo chairman, Sander van Gelder, was delighted by the FA’s decision. “We are very much looking forward to giving England the care that will help them put their best foot forward in Germany!”
