Shortly after wrapping up their studies for the 2017-18 academic year, seven student-athletes joined a larger group of students from The Ohio State University on the European Model of Sport study abroad trip. Thanks to the Buckeyes Go International scholarships provided by the athletic department, the students spent nine days trekking around Europe, expanding their worldview while gaining valuable knowledge into how the sports industry differs in Europe from the North American systems the athletes are more familiar with.

“Being able to travel the world is one of the greatest experiences in life, from learning and immersing myself in different cultures to meeting and connecting with new people, Ohio State gave me memories that will last a lifetime” – Mossimo Chavez, men’s swimming.

“Not only did I get to learn about sports in Europe and explore cities/countries I have never been to before, but I had the opportunity to meet and build a relationship with Ohio State students that I did not know before” – Erin Langermeier, women’s ice hockey

The group started their journey in Munich before heading to Prague. After a stopover in Dresden, the group made their way to Berlin, stopping to take in the culture of each area while learning about the impact of sports all over Europe. The group got to visit multiple facilities, including the soccer and basketball stadiums at Bayern Munich, the Olympic Park in Munich, the 02 Arena in Prague and all the Olympic facilities in Berlin.

“The European Model of Sport trip gave me a new perspective on how youth athletes are developed to professional players. I found a lot of differences between sport in the United States and in Europe, but also how these different models can benefit one another,” women’s hockey captain Erin Langermeier said.

Among the sports related stops on the trip, the group also took time to visit historical areas, such as the Dachau Concentration Camp, and other places that provide important historical context to where we, as people, have been and hope to never return to.

“This trip opened my eyes to different cultures I have never experienced before and made me see how involved European communities are in their sport culture. Getting to witness basketball and handball in Germany was a once in a lifetime experience!” – Monica Velazquez-Stiak

“Along with touring sporting facilities in Germany and the Czech Republic, we got to also see a lot of historically significant landmarks in both countries. We really enjoyed getting to learn more about their history stemming from WWII and how sport has influenced them throughout it as well,” – Alyssa Hoying, synchronized swimming.

“This trip was unlike any other,” synchronized swimmer Monica Velazquez-Stiak said. “Not only did we get to see the history and experience the culture of Germany and the Czech Republic, but we got to witness their sporting culture firsthand and understand how they run their sport federations.”

“The group we went with was so fun! Dr. Turner and Dr. Graham were a pleasure to have leading our trip. The students embraced the schedule of our packed trip and we made the most out of everything they had planned for us!” – Alyssa Hoying, synchronized swimming

The historical landmarks crossed paths with sports when the group made a trip to the Olympic Stadium in Berlin, one of the venues that played host to the 1936 Olympic games, hosted by the Nazi ran Germany.

“Going to Germany and Czech Republic opened my eyes to the idea that there is one universal language that is shared across the world and it’s sports. In the end, it binds people from all different countries who speak all different languages and it’s incredible to be apart of” – Sarah Roberts, women’s soccer

“The biggest takeaway for me on the trip was realizing how blessed I am to be a part of The Ohio State University. The university itself has so many connections around the country and internationally that we are given opportunities that most schools aren’t. Just being able to go on this trip and tour some of the greatest sport clubs in Europe is a testament to that.” Mossimo Chavez, men’s swimming

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