Spain Aquatic

Wednesday morning was spent enjoying the seaside!  The team went off for a trip to the beach and enjoyed some hours in the sun and on the sand.  The good "docs" went off to Valencia's City of Arts & Sciences Aquarium which has the reputation of being Europe's finest.  We regrouped back at the hotel for an afternoon class including two research presentations.  Tim Murray presented his work on the Spanish Inquisition and the unification of Spain under Ferdinand and Isabella.  Kevin Strobel reported on Moorish Spain.  There was lively discussion about religious persecution across cultures and many of the guys made connections to current world events.  The room was abuzz with anticipation for quiz 3.....read that coaches vs. students competition!  By the way, the students and coaches scores were tied for quiz 2 and the students were excited to demonstrate their knowledge of Valencia during quiz 3.  We'll keep you posted on the outcome.

Immediately after class, we convened for dinner....lots of carb loading in preparation for friendly match #2.  Our second match featured the Golden Bears vs. Third Division Paterna C.F. Scott Trautwein scored the first ever Western New England University goal on Spanish soil!  It was a clinical first half finish!!!  Nice work, Scott.  The Golden Bears continue to hold their defensive system as they face tough top class opposition. This was our first night game and second game on turf which appears to be the predominant surface in Spain.  Many games are played at night and on turf to avoid the mid day heat.  Both the fans and the players received an unexpected shower from the huge water cannons that are used to moisten and cool the pitch.  It's also interesting to note that the stadium was filled with U.S.A. current popular music for warm ups.

Chad Burke, who has taken on the role of videographer while rehabing from foot surgery, was approached by several inquisitive local children who were very interested in the filming of the game.  They were also interested in practicing their English skills and said "good morning" to Chad every third word.  Chad was a patient and gracious ambassador for the Golden Bears.  As we left the stadium, another game was beginning even though it was 10 p.m. at night!