Roger Hampel
FC Schalke 04, in collaboration with 11teamsports, adidas, and its sponsors, has announced the release of a special limited edition jersey. This unique kit not only celebrates the club's storied history but also showcases the creativity and passion of its young members. Designed with inspiration from the iconic fan song "FÜR IMMER MEIN VEREIN" ("Forever my club"), this jersey symbolizes the inclusive spirit of Schalke 04, embracing supporters of all ages and sizes.
Youth-Driven Design Process
A select group of nine young club members, aged between 18 and 25, were given the once-in-a-lifetime chance to leave their mark on the club's legacy by designing this special jersey. Their journey took them from inspiration workshops, including a visit to the adidas headquarters in Herzogenaurach, to the final touches that culminated in a design that they and the entire Schalke community can be proud of. The collaboration between Schalke, 11teamsports, and adidas, further enhanced by the generous decision of shirt sponsor VELTINS and sleeve sponsor Mulex to remove their branding for this project, underscores a collective commitment to celebrating the club's identity and its fans.
A Tribute to History and Unity
The limited edition jersey stands out with its dark blue color complemented by white trim, blending elements from various eras of the club's history. It features the 1924 S04 badge, commemorating the design's 100th anniversary. The shirt balances tradition and modernity, evident in the hologram of the retro badge alongside its modern counterpart. The fan slogan "FÜR IMMER MEIN VEREIN" prominently displayed at the center of the jersey, coupled with "EGAL OB JUNG, OB ALT, EGAL OB GROß, OB KLEIN" at the nape, encapsulates the club's inclusive ethos. Adding to the nostalgia is a subtle pattern representing the Parkstadion, with "SCHALKE" emblazoned on the back.
Special Packaging and Availability
Each jersey is presented in a special gift box, priced at €99.95 for adults and €69.95 for children, containing not just the shirt but also a retro logo pin and a sticker sheet, with optional printing on the back and the white 2. Bundesliga logo. This initiative is a testament to the power of community and the club's vision to engage its young members actively in its legacy.
Commendations and Charitable Contributions
Matthias Tillmann, CEO of FC Schalke 04, praised the initiative for its homage to the club's history and its role in fostering a strong bond with the fans. The project also highlights the collaboration's success, with contributions from all partners making it possible. In a generous move, €50,000 from the proceeds will be donated to Schalke hilft!, supporting the local community and furthering the club's social commitments. The match-worn jerseys will also be auctioned, with all profits going to the club's foundation, as decided by the young members themselves.
A Lasting Legacy
This limited edition jersey is more than just a piece of memorabilia; it's a symbol of FC Schalke 04's enduring spirit, its rich history, and its forward-looking engagement with its fans. Available from Thursday at the club's online shop and fan shop by the ground, it promises to be a coveted item for supporters and collectors alike, marking another chapter in Schalke's long and illustrious history.
In conclusion, the release of this limited edition Schalke 04 jersey not only celebrates the club's heritage but also underscores the importance of community, inclusivity, and the role of fans in shaping its identity. It's a tribute to the past, a nod to the present, and a beacon for the future, embodying the true essence of "FÜR IMMER MEIN VEREIN".
Source: FC Schalke 04
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