Entry No. 3 From Freshman Ariel Leach -- Starting off in Sinsheim, we spent the morning immersed and learning about the Bundesliga club TSG 1899 Hoffenheim. We were given a private tour of the men's stadium, Wirsol Rhein-Neckar Arena.

Beginning in the interview room, we could imagine the athletes being questioned by the press and different TV stations. Then, we were shown the locker rooms, which had their own connecting indoor field in case of bad weather along with pols filled with crushed ice. The players go up to their mechs in the crushed ice for 30-40 seconds. It was cool to learn about their recovery. This is a little different from what we do, since we take ice baths in water and ice for eight minutes after our games and practices, but both are cold and helpful all the same.

We were taken out onto their beautiful field, which has grass grown in there rather than rolled out. This is interesting because this allows the players to slide tackle without ripping and ruining the grass. The stadium was huge, holding seats for tens of thousands of fans.

We had the privilege of sitting on the players' bench. The seats were very comfortable and supportive. Then, we were shown boxes that fans can rent for a season and decorate to watch the games. We saw a box designed by the owner's daughter that had Swarovski diamonds hanging from the ceiling in a chandelier fashion.

Concluding the tour, we went to Zuzenhausen for a behind the scenes look at their Academy and training facilities. We were surprised with an amazing opportunity to use their multi-million dollar equipment. This machine is like a batting cage, but for soccer. Players are supposed to control the ball and pass it into a target that lights up around the arena. It's challenging because the ball speed and the angle can be adjusted. Goalies can work on balls in the air while field players can work on their first touch. Everyone was getting competitive , even our coaching staff and tour guides tried it. It was my favorite part of the trip so far. There are only three of these in the world, and they're all located in Europe. It was definitely an amazing experience I will never forget.

After visiting the training facilities, we headed to our first friendly match against TSG Hoffenheim. We hit a little traffic on the way there, so we were a little late to the game, but it ended up being a great opportunity for us to come together as a team and grow. Although losing the game 3-1, it was an amazing experience. It was very challenging, but it was also very exciting. TSG Hoffenheim is one of the is one of the best teams in Europe, and it definitely showed through their skill and playing ability. We learned a lot and I can't wait to use it this fall during our own season.

The weather could not have been more perfect. God was definitely in the sunset. We were even able to see the skyline of Schriesheim. Today was just another example of how much of a blessing this experience is. I can't wait to see what else God uses to shape and show us this trip.

Ariel