Del té dulce a las tapas Alex Frazier - ua in europe: globalization of sport

El viaje comenzó con un vuelo temprano por la mañana de Atlanta a LaGuardia, un salto bastante rápido pero lo suficientemente largo como para recordarme lo poco espacio que ofrece la clase económica, especialmente con 6'7" de altura. Despite the cramped quarters, the excitement of an international trip ahead made it easy to overlook the discomfort. The flight landed smoothly at LaGuardia, and from there, my friend Linsey and I grabbed our bags and headed toward Long Island, where we would be staying with our friend Will. Will, who’s also on the trip, had offered up his family’s house for the night, which was a huge bonus. It meant we didn’t have to deal with New York hotel prices or a late-night trek across the city. Getting out to Long Island was a classic New York experience: slow traffic, crowded trains, and just enough confusion to remind you you're in the Northeast. But once we arrived, it was a relief. Will’s place was cozy, and it felt good to stretch out after a long day of travel. We grabbed dinner nearby, swapped ideas about what we wanted to do in Madrid, and made sure all our gear was packed for the next leg of the trip. The following morning came fast. We had to make our way from Long Island to JFK, which is never exactly convenient, but we gave ourselves plenty of time. The check-in process at JFK was surprisingly smooth. Knowing we were about to be on a seven-hour flight to Spain, we made the usual last-minute airport rounds, snacks, water, and a final stretch of the legs. International flights are a bit more accommodating for someone of my height; still not ideal, but better than domestic flights. Boarding the flight to Madrid felt like the real beginning of the trip. After months of planning, we were finally on our way. Squeezing into the seat, I knew comfort would be limited, but with Spain ahead of us and good company beside me, the journey already felt worth it.

Day 2 (flight from JFK to Madrid)

The flight from JFK to Madrid was a seven-hour stretch of recycled air, occasional turbulence, and the constant shuffle of passengers squeezing past to stretch their legs or line up for the lavatory. My seat was a middle row aisle—arguably the best of the worst. I had enough space to lean slightly into the aisle, though this also meant occasional brushes from food carts and flight attendants. Still, I was grateful not to be wedged against a window or, worse, marooned in the middle of the middle. What saved me, what absolutely saved me, was the in-flight entertainment. The seat-back screen lit up like a portal to sanity. I started with Miracle, which was strange and brilliant enough to distract me completely from the growing numbness in my legs. Next up was Past Lives. A quieter, more reflective film, it grounded me with its aching nostalgia and gentle pacing. Somewhere over the Atlantic, with the cabin lights dimmed and everyone half-asleep or pretending to be, the film's tone matched the strange melancholy of night travel perfectly. By the time we began our descent over the Spanish countryside, I had finally reached the point of being tired, despite our early flight and 7 hours of sitting still. The jet lag was real, my spine felt like it had been folded in half, but somehow, through the magic of a well-stocked in-flight entertainment system, I arrived in Madrid with my sanity (mostly) intact. Cuando llegamos al hotel, Will y yo nos registramos en nuestra habitación y lamentablemente nos quedamos dormidos con los teléfonos en la cara y nos perdimos la cena de bienvenida.

Day 1 in Madrid

The following day began with a metro ride to a facility called NAIC, at least, I think that's how it’s pronounced; my apologies if I butchered the name. The ride itself was easy to navigate, giving us a glimpse of Madrid’s efficient public transit system and a chance to observe the early morning hustle of locals. Our destination turned out to be an incredible introduction to the world of adaptive sports. En NAIC, conocimos a Ignacio Ortega, un atleta inspirador que jugó en el equipo de baloncesto en silla de ruedas de la Universidad de Alabama. Su presencia nos conmovió y nos abrió los ojos. Escuchar su historia y observar su demostración de habilidad y precisión en la cancha nos abrió una nueva perspectiva del deporte y la dedicación necesaria para sobresalir. Ignacio no solo nos contó sus experiencias, sino que nos mostró de primera mano cómo son los deportes accesibles. Then came the real challenge: we were invited to sit in wheelchairs ourselves and try to play basketball. It looked fun and straightforward at first, but once I was in the chair, I realized just how difficult it actually was. Dribbling, steering, and shooting all at once while staying balanced was a test of coordination and upper-body strength like nothing I’d experienced before. It gave me a profound respect for athletes who train and compete in these conditions every day. After the session, we had some free time to explore Madrid. The sun was high, the streets were bustling, and the architecture of the city seemed to glow with a historic charm. We took the metro to what we were told was the city’s most “touristy” area—a place buzzing with both visitors and locals. There, we found a cozy spot to eat, indulging in delicious tapas and local fare that hit the spot after our athletic adventure. Later in the evening, we discovered a rooftop bar with stunning panoramic views of the city. A couple of drinks in hand, the group bonded effortlessly, swapping stories, laughing, and soaking in the vibrant Madrid skyline as the sun began to dip below the rooftops.

Day 2 in Madrid (Start of EASM)

El primer día oficial de la Escuela de Verano EASM fue emocionante y un poco abrumador a la vez. We gathered early in the morning, a mix of students from all over the world, each with different backgrounds, accents, and perspectives. It was immediately clear that this experience would push us beyond just academics; it was going to be about communication, collaboration, and cultural exchange. After a brief welcome and orientation, we were presented with our first major challenge: a case study focused on international sports management. The topic was complex, involving sponsorship strategies, stakeholder relations, and market analysis. As soon as we broke into our assigned groups, I realized just how much I had to learn, not just about the content, but about working with people from other cultures. Our group included students from Germany and France. Everyone had a different way of thinking and approaching the problem. Some wanted to dive into the data immediately, while others preferred to discuss the bigger picture first. At times, it was difficult to find common ground, but we slowly began to learn how to balance each other’s strengths and communication styles. By mid-afternoon, we had developed a rough plan of attack and, more importantly, had started to understand how to function as a team. It was rewarding to see how people’s diverse perspectives could come together to form creative and well-rounded solutions. Though the work was intense, there was also a shared sense of curiosity and mutual respect that made the experience enjoyable. After the day's academic activities wrapped up, we headed out into Madrid for a much-needed break. The group of us ended up at The Irish Rover, a lively bar popular with both locals and expats. Over cold cervezas and plates of tapas—patatas bravas, croquetas, and jamón—we laughed about the day’s challenges and traded stories from our home countries. The atmosphere was laid-back and full of energy, the perfect end to a long but fulfilling first day. It was in those moments, over shared food and drink, that the sense of community really began to form.

Day 3 in Madrid (tour of Citvas Metropolitano)

The following day was more academically focused, filled with a series of insightful lectures and dedicated time to continue developing our group case study. While it was a bit of a mental marathon, the content was genuinely interesting, diving into topics like sports marketing, event management, and cross-cultural leadership. It was also a valuable opportunity to refine our group dynamics and learn how to collaborate more efficiently. Debatimos, compartimos ideas y poco a poco comenzamos a dar forma a nuestra presentación, basándonos en lo que habíamos comenzado el día anterior. While the day was productive, we were all definitely feeling the intensity of the workload. However, any lingering fatigue quickly faded with the excitement of what came next. The following day was a lot more fun and a welcome change of pace. We had the incredible opportunity to tour the Cívitas Metropolitano, the home stadium of Atlético de Madrid, where the team plays their LaLiga matches every week. As a sports fan, I was thrilled, but even those less into football were impressed by the scale and design of the venue. I can humbly say it was one of the most impressive stadiums I have ever been in, modern, sleek, and absolutely massive. The tour was immersive and offered a rare behind-the-scenes look at the world of professional football. We walked through the VIP box seats, which felt more like a luxury hotel lounge than part of a sports arena. The locker room was immaculate, with each player’s space carefully organized and branded with their name and number. Stepping out onto the sidelines and sitting on the team benches was a surreal moment, just imagining the energy of the crowd on game day sent chills down my spine. Our guide shared fascinating stories about the team’s history and the stadium’s architecture, deepening our appreciation for the culture and business behind European football. It was a day filled with awe and inspiration, and it reminded me why I was passionate about studying sport management in the first place. By the end of the tour, we were all buzzing with excitement and grateful for such a memorable experience.

Day 4 in Madrid (Pizza and Padel)

The day of our final presentation arrived quicker than expected, and although nerves were high, I felt confident about what our group had prepared. After days of hard work, late-night edits, and countless discussions, we were ready. Standing in front of a room filled with international students and professors, I presented our case study with a sense of pride. Our group’s dynamic had improved so much over the week, and it really showed. We flowed smoothly from one section to the next, backing up our ideas with research, creativity, and a clear strategy. The feedback we received was incredibly positive, which made all the effort feel worth it. It was a great feeling to know that our collaboration had paid off, and even better to know it was over, at least for now. With the pressure off, we celebrated the way any group of hungry students would: with an massive pizza. We went to Kilómetros de Pizza, a restaurant famous for serving pizzas by the meter, and yes, it was as amazing as it sounds. We had a giant half-meter pizza stacked with different toppings: pepperoni, mushrooms, truffle oil, and more. The portions were absurd, but no one was complaining. After the stress of presenting, there was something deeply satisfying about diving into that cheesy, crispy goodness with the group. Más tarde esa tarde, llegó el momento del torneo de pádel, una de las actividades más divertidas (y humillantes) de la semana. I partnered up with Will, and despite our competitive spirits, let’s just say we weren’t exactly champions. We lost every game but one, and that one win was more due to the other team’s mistakes than our skill. Still, it was a blast. The games were fast-paced, the atmosphere was relaxed, and even as we kept losing, we couldn’t stop laughing. It was a great way to connect with others, get moving, and enjoy the sunny Madrid afternoon. We may not have walked away with a trophy, but we walked away with some great memories.

Day 5 in Madrid (Real Madrid tour and Athletico game)

Nuestro último día completo en Madrid estuvo repleto de experiencias inolvidables que combinaron deportes, historia y el espíritu vibrante de la ciudad. We started the morning with a tour of one of the most iconic stadiums in the world, Santiago Bernabéu, home of Real Madrid. Even as someone who isn’t a die-hard fan, stepping into the stadium was a powerful moment. The scale of the place is breathtaking, and the ongoing renovations made it clear that the club is constantly evolving, just like its legacy. We walked through the trophy room, which felt more like a museum of football greatness, with gleaming displays showcasing countless LaLiga titles, Champions League trophies, and legendary memorabilia. Seeing names like Zidane, Ronaldo, and Ramos etched into history gave me chills. Sitting in the stands and imagining 80,000 fans roaring during a match was something I won’t soon forget. After the stadium tour, we shifted gears and explored another side of Madrid: its rich, historic heart. Our walking tour through the city’s old district offered a completely different energy. We strolled through charming cobblestone streets, stopped by the bustling Plaza Mayor, and admired grand landmarks like the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral. Our guide filled us in on the city’s centuries-old stories, tales of royalty, rebellion, and cultural transformation. It was the perfect balance to the modern intensity of the stadium experience earlier in the day. As the sun began to set, we headed back to the Cívitas Metropolitano for a live Atlético de Madrid game—a thrilling conclusion to our sports-focused week. The energy in the stadium was electric from the very beginning. We joined the sea of red and white, cheering along with passionate fans as Atlético took on Real Betis. The game itself was incredible, fast, intense, and packed with action. Atlético came out on top with a dominant 4–1 victory, and every goal sent the stadium into a frenzy. Being part of that atmosphere, surrounded by such raw passion for the sport, was the perfect ending to our Madrid experience. It was a day that captured everything, football, culture, history, and pure joy.

Day 1 in Barcelona (Bike Tour)

Our first day in Barcelona kicked off with a bike tour that turned out to be the perfect way to get a feel for the city. After a long bus ride from Madrid, it felt amazing to stretch our legs and get moving, and riding through the streets of Barcelona with the sea breeze in our faces was an experience I won’t forget. We met our tour guide near the Gothic Quarter, where we were fitted with bikes and given a quick rundown of the route. La energía del grupo era alta, y a pesar de algunas dificultades iniciales y algunos encontronazos con los bordillos, rápidamente le cogimos el truco. The tour took us through a wide range of neighborhoods, each with its own personality. We cruised through the historic Gothic Quarter, weaving through narrow alleys and past buildings that looked straight out of a storybook. Our guide shared bits of history along the way, pointing out hidden courtyards, Roman walls, and the occasional quirky statue. From there, we rode past the towering Sagrada Família, where we stopped for a quick photo break and to admire Gaudí’s surreal architecture in person. Seeing it up close was incredible, no picture really does it justice. Next, we followed a wide avenue down toward the beach. The ride along the waterfront was one of the highlights of the day. The sun was shining, the Mediterranean was sparkling, and locals were out rollerblading, jogging, or just enjoying the day. We paused by the marina and learned a bit about how the city transformed for the 1992 Olympics, which played a huge role in shaping modern Barcelona. After about two hours of riding, we ended our tour near Barceloneta Beach, where we returned our bikes and grabbed a much-needed drink. We were hot, a little tired, and very happy. It was the perfect introduction to the city, equal parts sightseeing, exercise, and fun. The bike tour gave us a real sense of Barcelona’s layout, culture, and charm, and it set the tone for the rest of the trip.

Day 2 in Barcelona (Olympic tour)

Our visit to the Olympic Stadium in Barcelona was one of the most memorable and inspiring moments of the trip.Situado en la colina de Montjuïc, el estadio, conocido oficialmente como Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, fue construido originalmente en 1927 y posteriormente renovado para los Juegos Olímpicos de Verano de 1992, un acontecimiento fundamental que ayudó a redefinir la identidad global de la ciudad. As we arrived, the view overlooking the city and coastline was already breathtaking, setting the stage for a truly special experience. Walking into the stadium, I was struck by its balance of old-world architecture and modern design. Though it has the classic look of a historic venue, everything inside felt clean, expansive, and alive with history. Our guide began by walking us through the Olympic legacy of Barcelona, explaining how the 1992 Games not only put the city on the map as a major destination but also sparked widespread urban renewal. It was fascinating to hear how the Olympics were more than just a sporting event, they transformed transportation, architecture, and even the cultural energy of the city. We got to stand in the stands where thousands once cheered, and even walk along the track where some of the world’s greatest athletes competed. Imagining the roar of the crowd and the weight of national pride in each event was genuinely moving. We also toured the areas used by athletes and organizers, learning about the behind-the-scenes logistics of hosting such a monumental event. The Olympic torch towered above the stadium, a symbolic reminder of the unity and passion that the Games represent. One of the most interesting parts of the tour was learning how the stadium is still being used today, not only for sporting events but also for concerts and community activities. It felt like a living monument to the power of sport to bring people together. By the end of the visit, I felt both awe and inspiration. The Olympic Stadium wasn't just a site of athletic achievement, it was a symbol of how sport can shape a city and leave a legacy far beyond the field.

Day 3 in Barcelona (Sagrada Familia and Park Guell)

Comenzamos con una visita guiada a la Sagrada Familia, la basílica mundialmente famosa diseñada por el legendario arquitecto Antoni Gaudí. From the moment we approached it, the Sagrada Família felt almost unreal. Its towering spires, intricate facades, and surreal, organic shapes made it look like something from a dream. Inside, the experience was even more breathtaking. Light streamed through the colorful stained-glass windows, casting a kaleidoscope of colors across the stone walls. The columns stretched toward the ceiling like trees in a forest, making the space feel both vast and intimate. Our guide walked us through the symbolism behind Gaudí’s design, the way he wove together faith, nature, and geometry into every corner of the basilica. It was incredible to learn how construction began in 1882 and is still ongoing, funded entirely by private donations and entrance fees. Even unfinished, the Sagrada Família is easily one of the most beautiful buildings I’ve ever seen, and it left a lasting impression. After the tour, we had some free time to explore Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, one of Barcelona’s most famous markets. Stepping into the market was like stepping into a celebration of food. The stalls were bursting with color, fresh fruit, hanging jamón, candy, spices, seafood, and more. I grabbed a cup of freshly squeezed mango juice and a small cone of cured meats, which made for a delicious mid-day snack. The market was full of energy, with locals and tourists alike weaving through the narrow aisles, tasting and chatting. We ended the day at Park Güell, another of Gaudí’s masterpieces. Perched on a hillside overlooking the city, the park was a peaceful, whimsical retreat. The mosaic-covered benches, winding pathways, and sculptural structures all reflected Gaudí’s unique vision. We wandered through the park, taking in the views of Barcelona as the sun began to dip lower in the sky. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on a day filled with creativity, culture, and color.

Day 4 and 5 in Barcelona (Espanyol Tour, Cooking Class, and Catamaran)

Nuestros dos últimos días en Barcelona fueron la conclusión perfecta para un viaje inolvidable, lleno de grandes recuerdos, experiencias prácticas y una última oportunidad para disfrutar de la belleza de la ciudad. We started with a visit to the RCDE Stadium, home of RCD Espanyol. While Espanyol might not have the same global fame as FC Barcelona, the tour of their stadium was every bit as impressive. It had a more intimate feel than the massive Camp Nou or even Santiago Bernabéu, which made it feel especially personal and community-centered. We explored the locker rooms, press area, and even walked down the players’ tunnel out to the pitch. Hearing about the club’s history and fan culture gave us a deeper appreciation for how football connects communities across all levels, not just with the big-name teams. Later that day, we took part in a cooking class at Born to Cook, which turned out to be one of the most fun and engaging activities of the entire program. Set in a beautifully renovated old building in the heart of the city, the cooking school welcomed us with a warm, vibrant atmosphere. We teamed up to prepare classic Spanish dishes like paella, gazpacho, and Catalan cream, guided by professional chefs who shared cooking tips and cultural insights along the way. It was equal parts learning and laughter as we chopped, stirred, and plated our creations—then sat down together to enjoy the meal we had made. Sharing the food we cooked with classmates from all over the world felt like a perfect celebration of the trip. On our final morning, we boarded a catamaran for an 11 a.m. cruise along the coast of Barcelona. With the sea sparkling and the breeze cool against our faces, it was a relaxing and reflective end to our time in Spain. We lounged on nets, listened to music, and watched the city slowly drift by from the water. It was peaceful, beautiful, and gave us all a moment to take in just how much we had experienced. It couldn’t have been a better send-off.

Day 6 in Barcelona (Cancelation)