Day 6

I can’t believe we only have 3 more full days left in Europe! It is all going much too fast! (Don’t worry, we miss you all at home too!) The past two days have been extremely exciting and eventful. Yesterday, we said goodbye to our favorite trainer Roel. We will miss his fun, extreme warm up games and drills (even though some were a bit intense).  Following the training session, we ventured into Maastricht, the oldest city in Holland. The city is over 1000 years old! We explored the Roman ruins, little shops, and ventured through a carnival. We saw the cathedral, Basilica of Saint Servatius and explored the surrounding park. To keep us energized through all this touring, some of us indulged in chocolate filled waffles or gelato (clearly we are maintaining healthy eating habits overseas.)

After touring Maastricht, we went shopping! (Don’t worry mom I didn’t buy any clothes!) Our bus driver accidently took us to the mall, but no worries, we found our way to the outlets. Hub was determined to take us to the outlets and find us some good steals! (I think Hub was more excited than we were) Again, we stopped for more gelato (it helped energize us for the game!)

                We were in for a big shock last night as we pulled up to the Maastricht field hockey team’s field. Apparently, yesterday was the last day of university classes, so there was a giant party going on at the fields (clearly they like to party in Holland). After stepping off the bus, we ventured through the mass of students. I couldn’t believe how many people were at the fields. I guess when they party in Holland, they go all out! We were greeted by a few students; they were all very entertaining to say the least.

                Last night, we faced our most challenging opponents. We played very well against them. After implementing the “bowl” formation in the back, our passing game was on! Both the defense and offense made some really great plays and saves! The girls we played were extremely nice and even offered to show us around Maastricht. After four days of games, we were ready for some rest!

I will post pictures as soon as my camera is charged!

~Shafi