Real Madrid training camps have already welcomed 1,000 kids

Almost one thousand children have spent the first two weeks of July in football and basketball camps in various venues in Madrid and across the world.

The Real Madrid Foundation is trying to ensure that the de-escalation as a result of the coronavirus pandemic doesn't affect its usual summer activities.

The champions of LaLiga Santander are among only a few clubs to have decided to resume educational activities.

It has taken months to prepare rigorous health protocols in order for coaches, children and parents to be able to take part in such camps.

The offer of maximum quality training camps that combine sport with education and outdoor fun have not only been offered in the centre of Madrid but also in neighbouring towns such as Alcorcon, Villaviciosa de Odon, Guadalajara, Sotogrande, Aviles, and even in China.

"It is true that certain venues haven't been able to open, but we have been able to provide alternatives for camps like the one in Guadalajara, which we are happy about," said director of Real Madrid Campus Experience, Joaquin Sagues.

"Alongside the two basketball camps that have brought in 200 children, we have reached 1000 students in the first two weeks of July.

"They are not the figures we have seen in previous years, mainly because students from overseas aren't able to come, however, we have seen up to 40 different nationalities and with our health protocol, parents can rest easy," Sagues added.

The package the foundation offers is very competitive and ensures the safety of its clients, most notably including a COVID-19 test free of charge and although some camps such as the camp in Guadalajara haven't been able to open, with the help of 'La Caixa' and the local council, it has been able to house the students from poorer backgrounds.

More girls involved than ever before

The foundation has also been able to highlight the fact that around five percent of participants were female, which has been more than in previous years.

The number of children who initially signed on for one week and have re-registered for a second week has also been high.

"Although it has been a year of great uncertainty, we believe that our health protocol works, obviously it is more expensive but as a result we are safer," Sagues admitted.

"We have to be here so that our children have the right to play, make friends and enjoy playing sport in open air."

"With tests, disinfection, masks and persistent cleaning, we have not had any problems and we hope that this continues throughout the summer.

"Many families won't be able to leave Madrid this summer and we are a healthy alternative for education and leisure," Sagues concluded.