ELON, N.C. – The Elon University men's soccer team will take part in its second international trip next week, March 24-31, as the team heads to Spain and Portugal for an unprecedented journey of learning experiences while also getting a chance to play and train abroad.
 
As part of the Elon Commitment to diversity and global engagement for its students, the team will travel to Lisbon and Madrid during the eight-day trip as the student-athletes will also complete their learning requirement. Dr. Eric Hall, a professor for exercise science and Elon's faculty athletics representative will accompany the team on the trip while leading the class 'Portugal/Spain: Global Exploration'. The course is set to give the team a deeper understanding of culture, people and place through interaction, observation and reflection.
 
This is the program's second trip abroad to Spain after the team traveled to Barcelona and Madrid for a nine-day journey in 2015. NCAA regulations allow athletics teams to make one foreign trip every four years.
 
"Our players and staff are truly grateful and excited about our upcoming trip to Portugal and Spain," said Elon head coach Marc Reeves. "Elon athletics prides itself on providing the very best experience for our student athletes and integrating them fully into the enriched and global education Elon offers. This study abroad opportunity will truly allow them to immerse in the culture of two great European cities in Lisbon and Madrid."
 
The team will also compete athletically against Portuguese and Spanish club teams over the course of the trip to gain international playing experience and have a chance to interact with foreign players.
 
"These countries and cities are also passionate and rich in football history, which will add into the experience for all," added Reeves.
 
Stay tuned to elonphoenix.com for updates from the team throughout the trip. Fans can also follow along with the men's soccer team on the following social media sites to hear from players and see pictures.