March 14, 2011
WASHINGTON - The Georgetown University women's soccer team spent its Spring Break in Brazil, touring parts of the country, playing soccer and watching some professional games. Throughout the trip, members of the team provided updates from Brazil. The final installment comes from junior forward Camille Trujillo (Albuquerque, N.M./St. Pius X).
Saturday, March 12, 2011
"Today was our last day in Rio de Janeiro and we all had mixed feelings about leaving. Most of us wanted to head back to campus because we were physically exhausted from constantly traveling; however, we are not looking forward to the homework that lies ahead of us this upcoming week. In order to make the best of situation, we played a friendly against the Brazilian Marine Corps Women's Soccer Team, Corpo de Fuzileiros Navais. The coaches and players were extremely hospitable, welcoming all of us with respect. When we first drove up to their base, they immediately greeted us and showed us around their facility, the largest physical education center in Brazil! This team has been training for the Military World Cup for a while now and this game would be their first preseason game. Before long, it was time to play against this extremely athletic and disciplined squad in the hot and humid Brazilian weather. Considering the climate, the first half went well and both teams were even in play. Halftime rolled around and, before we knew it, we were back on the field. The other team scored a couple of goals early on, but that did not hinder our motivation or work ethic. We continued to battle and were able to score a goal later in the game. The other team ended up winning, but overall it was a great experience. Their coach told us that the result did not reflect what happened on the pitch and that both teams played well. We came away from the game knowing that we can play with Brazilians; granted, we have things to work on, but that is part of the whole process of learning and becoming better players.
"After the game, we headed back to the hotel to change and lay out on the beach for one last time! Once we stepped onto the beach, vendors swarmed around us. Some were selling bracelets, while others were selling flags. The most memorable vendor was the Pineapple Man. Yes, the Pineapple Man - not the Muffin Man. He showed great skill by carefully balancing a basket full of fresh pineapples on top of his head. He then proceeded to run around (without dropping the basket) and frighten us by screaming in our faces. Let's just say that some people freaked out more than others (*cough* Katie Wing). We will never forget you Mister Pineapple Man. Four o'clock rolled around and it was time to pack up and leave for the airport. We all did not want to leave the beach with the roar of the crashing waves against the shore, the smell of the salt water, the squawking of the seagulls, although they always try to steal your food, and the feeling of the sand between our toes. To add to our sorrow, we had to say farewell to our tour guides, Kris and Antonio. They did so much for our team and we appreciate all that they planned for us. Thanks again Kris and Antonio for everything! Our long trek back to the United States began."
Sunday, March 13, 2011
"We arrived in Miami at 5:15 a.m. and had to go through customs, which was quite a process, especially since it was my first time out of the country. After that whole procedure, we proceeded to our gate to endure another two and a half hours to DC, which was nothing compared to our flight from Rio de Janeiro to Miami - a total of 8 hours! Two and a half hours later, we touched down in DC and all of us were happy to be back after such a tiresome night of traveling. Once we arrived at baggage claim, we all began to retrieve our luggage. Caitlin Durkee accidently picked up the wrong suitcase, even though it looked exactly like hers, just slightly heavier. Fuse (Claire Fuselier) came to the rescue and walked out to the bus with Durkee's real suitcase. Following that bit of excitement, we pulled up to campus and began to adjust to school life once again.
"Overall, the trip was an amazing experience! We were able to see some breathtaking sites that other people may never have the opportunity to see in their lifetime. Although it rained for most of the week, we all adjusted and were still able to have an enjoyable time. Along with the sites, we were able to play some very technical Brazilian teams! It was a great opportunity and hopefully we can have another similar experience in the future. We are all extremely grateful for those that were able to help make this trip possible. If it were not for our parents, coaches, administrators and each other then this trip would not have happened. Obrigada!"
