"The Women's World Cup in Germany will be much more than a sporting highlight. It will be a major social event and offers another opportunity for the whole country to show the world it is joyful, open and hospitable." With these words, German Football Association (DFB) General Secretary Wolfgang Niersbach welcomed the Germany women's team to an informational get-together in Freiburg on Monday 25 February.

Three days ahead of the first women's international of this Olympic year, in which the current women's world champions face China, Niersbach joined OC President Steffi Jones in a high-ranking FIFA Women's World Cup 2011 Organising Committee delegation, to make a 45-minute presentation highlighting the socio-political significance of the showcase event in 2011, and outlining the most important organisational milestones.

Among the highlights of the presentation and round-table discussion, hosted by Jens Grittner and also including OC head of marketing Doris Fitschen, were specially created video segments, including the emotional story of a young female player who dreams of playing in the FIFA Women's World Cup final and scores the opening goal in the deciding match in 2011, plus a review of the most thrilling moments from the 2006 FIFA World Cup™.

"Every international wants to play at the World Cup in her own country. I had butterflies in my stomach when I saw the images from the World Cup in 2006. We have a unique opportunity to be right up close to the action again in 2011. From a sporting point of view, our priorities are obviously the Olympics this year and the European Championship in Finland next year. But it goes without saying we'll play our part in building up the sense of anticipation in Germany as we approach the World Cup in 2011," commented coach Silvia Neid.

OC President Steffi Jones appealed to the players for their support in organising the 2011 finals: "With its outstanding track record, the national team is and remains the driving force behind girls' and women's football. From my time as a player, I myself understand that your first priority is sporting success. But we at the OC would thoroughly appreciate your support in laying on a party in 2011 which is just as good as the one in 2006."