Mainz set off for the USA on Saturday ahead of a week-long training camp. - © © 1. FSV Mainz 05
Mainz set off for the USA on Saturday ahead of a week-long training camp. - © © 1. FSV Mainz 05

Mainz seek to make a splash across the pond

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After a successful 2015/16 campaign, which resulted in European qualification, 1. FSV Mainz 05 are expanding their horizons further still this summer. Accompanied by a large delegation, the squad are heading to Colorado Springs for a week-long training camp. The trip promises to be special, not least because it is the Zero-Fivers’ first visit to the USA.

"The training camp in the US connects two important aspects: In a sporting sense it helps us complete the first stage of training and preparation for the new season, furthermore, we are very pleased that we can represent Mainz 05 and the Bundesliga in Colorado," said Sporting director Rouven Schröder. "We are excited about the contacts that we will make, and looking forward to the journey."

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Aiming high

The main focus of the Colorado training camp will be fitness. Situated at around 1800 meters above sea-level in the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs can certainly be described as altitude-training. The players headed stateside on Saturday with only Yunus Malli (on holiday after EURO 2016), Danny Latza (adductor injury) and Emil Berggreen (knee) not on board.

Testing their mettle

Once landed, the team will be residing in style at The Lodge at Flying Horse in Colorado Springs and can look forward to ideal training conditions at the Air Force Academy. Martin Schmidt’s men will then get the chance to gain match fitness in friendlies against local outfit Switchbacks FC on Tuesday 12 July and then again a day later against Mexican second-division side Leones Negros.

There are plenty of off-the-pitch activities planned, including two autograph sessions, a business evening with local firms and coaches Schmidt and Peter Perchthold will be giving insights at a workshop for elite coaches.

The delegation will be heading home on Sunday 17 July. After a few days rest, the players will begin final preparations for the upcoming Bundesliga season with a training camp in Italy and two high-profile friendlies against last season’s Europa League finalists Sevilla and Liverpool.