Vienna Vikings host Camp with Indianapolis Colts as NFL Star Bernhard Raimann Returns to Vienna
The American Football League Europe (AFLE) is proud to spotlight one of its franchises leading the way in grassroots development: today, the Vienna Vikings‚ training ground on Ravelinstraße turned into a hub for the next generation of European American football and cheerleading talent.
Something For Every Age Group and Every Interest
In partnership with the Indianapolis Colts and their left tackle Bernhard Raimann, the Vienna Vikings, sitting atop the AFLE standings with a perfect 6-0 record, hosted a Football and Cheerleading Camp for children and youth under summer temperatures. The demand was overwhelming: with 160 participants in total, the camp was completely sold out.
Alongside Bernhard Raimann, the Colts Cheerleaders and Global Ambassador Björn Werner also made an appearance, adding extra star power to the afternoon.
The event kicked off with a roughly 30-minute media availability before moving straight onto the field, where a varied program awaited the young athletes: Flag Football, a Cheerleading PeeWee Class, an OL/DL Tackle Football Clinic, and a Cheer Dance Workshop ensured there was something for every age group and every interest.
With this camp, the Vienna Vikings demonstrated why youth development is such a central pillar of the AFLE’s mission. Events like this one lay the groundwork for a successful future for the league, giving the next generation of players tangible role models to look up to.
Bernhard Raimann Happy About the Development of American Football in Europe
Asked about the importance of today’s camp for the development of European American football, Bernhard Raimann said:
„To me, this is so important. This is one of the most important facilities in Europe. I’ve been here with hundreds of kids, practicing, and it means a lot to me to be back here. Every time I’m back, I’m happy to see how European American football is developing, from the youth team to the senior team. It’s good to see how everything moves into the right direction.“
Chris Calaycay, head coach of the Vienna Vikings, highlighted the role-model effect the NFL player has on the young participants:
„Today is about the kids and about what is possible for an American football player in their journey. Bernhard Raimann represents what is possible, and I think that’s such a cool thing to have him here with all these kids.“
With this kids and youth camp, the Vienna Vikings send a clear message on behalf of the entire league: youth development sits at the heart of the league’s philosophy, and with support from NFL partners like the Indianapolis Colts and Bernhard Raimann, the next generation of European American football talent moves one step closer to their role models.
