Zhou Xingze, captain of the Taicang squad, praised the Italian coaches, saying that provided useful advice and answers to improve coaching and playing techniques.

As a defender, Zhou was able to learn more about the weaknesses in his game and was taught new ways to improve by the Italian coaches. The team also took part in friendly matches with five local football clubs.

The youth football team from Taicang No 2 Primary School takes part in a friendly with an urban football club in Macerata, Italy. [Photo/Taicang Daily]

The team visited several local football clubs, as well as the Italian National Football Museum, and was even given access to the training ground of the Italian national team.

Zhu Mingang, head coach of the Taicang team, said that football is an art form as well as a sport. "The artistic accomplishment of football players determines their horizon and temperament, which is vital to their athletic ability," Zhu said.

He added that the Italian visit would help to open youth players' minds, widen their horizons, and stir up their enthusiasm for football.

Taicang government has been working on a guideline for campus football development, which plans to set up football related courses in schools, including preliminary, middle and high schools and cultivate young football talents.

By Ding Yuanyuan and edited by Owen Fishwick