Switzerland confirms Emerald Resort and Casino for 2010 camp
18. Dec, 2009
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The Swiss Football Association announced this week that it will be based in Vanderbijlpark’s Emerald Resort and Casino over the World Cup period next year. Along with the team, an entire entourage of media are expected to make the property its home base. The Swiss Team will have exclusive occupancy of the Emerald Hotel, whilst the media contingent will be accommodated at the River Resort Chalets.
“During the tournament the Emerald Resort and Casino will be transformed into a local headquarters for Swiss football,” says CEO Martin Rice. Apart from functioning as a team base, the venue’s Sport and Entertainment Centre will be transformed into a global broadcast centre with several networks constructing temporary studio facilities. The team, drawn against Spain, Honduras and Chile in its group is presently ranked 18th in the world.
“Following the draw on 4 December, the World Cup has become a reality for many South Africans,” says Rice. “It is a once in a lifetime opportunity not only to witness the world’s premier teams, but also a window where South Africans are able to not only change perceptions about our country, but reinforce the positive as a prime tourism destination and, as it is fast becoming, a global sporting mecca.”
“While all the Swiss first round matches are played in various centres across the country, the Emerald Resort and Casino was a logical choice,” says Swiss head coach Ottmar Hitzfeld. “It creates an opportunity for the team, a large Swiss media contingent and all ancillary partners to be in close proximity, creating a central operational hub.” He adds that the team will be practicing and acclimatising in the area before matches, also taking in the local sights.
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[...] – The Swiss Football Association confirmed in December 2009 that the Emerald Resort and Casino in Vanderbijparkwill be the Swiss base camp during the 2010 World Cup. The resort is situated about one hour outside [...]