Maryland ODP teams return from Europe

Maryland ODP Teams Return from Europe

The Maryland State ODP teams traveled to Europe over Spring Break 2013 for some top quality soccer matchups and an enriching cultural experience. The 1996 Boys travelled to Barcelona, Spain; the 2000 Boys to Stirling, Scotland; and the 2000 Girls to London, England. The 1996 Boys enjoyed a week of top quality soccer and got the chance to attend the FC Barcelona vs. Mallorca game. They also toured Camp Nou Stadium, home to FC Barcelona and saw the Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s unfinished temple. The 2000 Boys played seven games against Glasgow Celtic Academy, Glasgow Rangers Academy, Partick Thistle FC, Livingston FC, Hamilton Accies FC, Stenhousemuir FC and Alloa Athletic. They also attended the Glasgow Celtic v Hibernian game and toured Edinburgh Castle and Celtic Stadium. Lastly, two 2000 Girls teams travelled and played four games each against teams like Reading FC, Crystal Palace Ladies FC, Charlton Athletic LFC, and Tottenham Hotspur. They also attended a professional game, Crystal Palace FC vs. Barnsley, and visited the Tower of London.

Click here to watch a video from the 1996 Boys trip to Barcelona, Spain

Click here to watch a video from the 2000 Boys trip to Stirling, Scotland

Click here to watch a video from the 2000 Girls trip to London, England

2014 Maryland ODP International Trips

Tentative dates and destinations

The Maryland State Youth Soccer Association’s ODP program aims to provide high-level training to benefit and enhance the development of players at all levels. This is why MSYSA offers ODP teams the chance to travel internationally and play soccer. The level of play and the level of coaching in Europe are second to none! Through travel to Europe, players engage in a level of competition not found in the U.S. as well as learn a different style of play. Not only will an international tour enhance your player’s soccer skills but their cultural experience. Players mingle with their opponents at post-game and pre-game socials, try new foods, see new sights and bond with their teammates. Don’t let this opportunity to broaden your player’s horizon slip by. All trips will take place Sunday, April 13, 2014 - Monday, April 21, 2014. All MSYSA sponsored international trips are designed and administered by Excel International Sports. Destinations for 2014 are as follows:

2001 Boys – Stirling, Scotland

1999 Boys – Manchester, England

1997 Boys – Barcelona, Spain

2001 Girls – London, England

1999 Girls – Amsterdam, Holland

CLICK HERE to watch Maryland ODP 2011 International Trip Highlights

About Excel International Sports: "Excel International Sports has been leading soccer teams from the United States on International trips for 15 years. Because of our experience, our knowledge and our network, we are one of the top companies in our industy. Excel International Sports’ mission is to bring people from North America to different countries to participate in the world’s greatest game while breaking down barriers of language, culture, and geography. As world travelers, we make it our goal to enhance your cultural and sports awareness. Excel International Sports has been taking the ODP teams to Europe for 15 years; we know how to customize this trip to the needs of an ODP team. Recent teams that have traveled with us are University of Maryland, Loyola College, UMBC, Salisbury University, Gettysburg College, Lynchburg College, Frostburg State University, Good Counsel High School, Loyola High School, Iowa ODP, Maryland ODP and Maryland DDP." More information about us and our tours can be found at www.eurosoccertours.net.

**ODP players are not required to travel internationally. Participation is strictly optional and no player will be penalized if they do not take the trip. All international trip costs are the same for players and chaperones.