May 18, 2009
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - The Penn State women's soccer team begins a trek to South America today with a visit to Brazil. In addition to experiencing a different culture, the 11-time Big Ten Champions will take part in international competition while working on team building exercises and summer conditioning.
The NCAA allows one international trip every four years, and for head coach Erica Walsh, the decision to go to Brazil was an easy one.
"I wanted us to experience a completely different culture and play quality opponents," said Walsh.
Throughout the 10-day trip, the Lions are scheduled to play three individual matches in addition to a beach soccer tournament and an indoor futsal tournament. Futsal is similar to international football except it is played on a hard surface with five players on each team, including the goalkeeper, and up to seven substitutes.
"We are coming off a very successful spring season and are hoping to continue that success on this trip," said Walsh. "One of the biggest benefits of playing in this part of the world will be gaining lessons on gamesmanship perspective. Brazilians have a different style of play when it comes to controlling the tempo, and we will see these tactics late in the game. They are masters at manipulating the outcome in different situations."
The team will also have the opportunity to watch a few men's professional soccer games while experiencing the culture of Brazil and South America.
The Nittany Lions will be documenting their experience throughout the trip in a blog that will be featured on the Penn State women's soccer page.
Match Schedule:
Match 1 - Wednesday, May 20
Match 2 - Thursday, May 21
Futsal tournament - Friday, May 22
Beach soccer tournament - Monday, May 25
Match 3 - Tuesday, May 26