OHIO STATE MENS SOCCER | ENGLAND TOUR | MAY 2024
The Ohio State University Men's Soccer team embarked on an exhilarating 10-day tour of the UK that was more than just football. This adventure was a rich blend of soccer, culture, and camaraderie, offering the players experiences that they will cherish forever.​
Kicking off their journey, the team visited The City Ground Stadium, home of Nottingham Forest FC. This tour laid the foundation for what was to come – an immersion into the heart of English football tradition.
Their first taste of English training came at the Derby County FC Academy, where the players engaged in high-level drills and tactics, sharpening their skills with the guidance of top coaches. The day wasn't all work, though, as the team bonded over an adrenaline-pumping paintball session, fostering a spirit of unity and resilience.
The competitive spirit of Ohio State shone throughout the tour with a series of challenging fixtures.
In their first match against Leicester City U21s at the Leicester City Training Ground, Ohio State MSOC emerged victorious with a thrilling 2-1 win. Their second fixture saw them battling Everton U21s at Finch Farm Training Ground, resulting in a gripping 3-3 draw after a hard-fought match. The climax came during their encounter with Brentford B at Wheatsheaf Park, where they faced a tough opponent and ended the game with a score of 2-4. Despite the defeat, the journey was marked by invaluable experiences and showcased the team's growth and resilience.
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The excitement continued as they witnessed the FA Youth Cup Final between Manchester City and Leeds United at the Etihad Stadium. This live game, filled with youthful energy and passion, provided valuable insights into the caliber of English youth football.
Off the field, the squad soaked in live professional matches. They experienced the electric atmosphere at Goodison Park as Everton took on Sheffield United, followed by another iconic game at Old Trafford where Manchester United clashed with Arsenal. These moments of watching top-tier football live were inspiring and motivating for the young athletes.
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The training sessions didn’t stop there. A mixed training session with Wolverhampton Wanderers U21s at the Sir Jack Hayward Training Ground offered yet another opportunity for skill enhancement and cross-cultural exchange.
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The tour also included watching Tottenham Hotspur face Manchester City at the stunning Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. These live experiences of Premier League action were invaluable, allowing the players to witness firsthand the speed, skill, and strategy at the highest level of the game.
Beyond football, the team enjoyed a scenic boat tour of London, coupled with some well-deserved free time to explore the vibrant capital city. From historical landmarks to modern attractions, the players embraced the rich cultural tapestry that London had to offer.
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In summary, the Ohio State University Men's Soccer 10-day UK Tour was a remarkable blend of sport, learning, and adventure. It was more than just the matches and training sessions; it was an all-encompassing experience of growth, unity, and cultural appreciation. The players returned home with not only sharpened skills but also a broadened horizon and a deeper love for the beautiful game.