WPE quite simply provided our team with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Our trip to Barcelona was the first travel trip of its kind for our club, so we were inexperienced in terms of what to expect. We had a million questions, we had things that needed to change, and plans that had to pivot. Many of our girls had never traveled internationally! The WPE team was exceptionally patient and accommodating every step of the way, and went out of their way to make sure we had everything we needed, and that the logistics for our trip went as smooth as possible. Our hosts, Pere, Alex, and Martina, were absolutely first class. Our team felt like we made lifelong friends.
The water polo instruction and experience exceeded all expectations. The Masterclasses in the mornings were exceptional: guided by Olympians and National Team athletes, our girls and coaches left Barcelona feeling as if they gained innumerable skills in the pool, and were thrilled with the high level one on one coaching that they were given every day. The scrimmages in the afternoon with the local clubs were tough but fun, and we returned home feeling like our team had become tougher because of the work we put in battling the high level of play by the local clubs. They especially had fun trading shirts and suits with some of the local girls! We were also in awe at the beautiful facilities we were able to visit every day, and having Club Natacio Barcelona as a home base every morning was incredible. The CNB facility is truly unparalleled.
Finally, being able to experience world-class water polo with the beautiful backdrop of Barcelona was indeed a pleasure. The sightseeing tours were incredible, and we only wish we had more time to explore the city more in depth. Next time!
Again, our guides and hosts cannot be thanked enough: our group felt truly special and well cared for every step of the way. This trip created memories well beyond the skills they gained in the pool, and we are excited for the club to continue the relationship with WPE so we can start planning the next trip!