If you're a high school teacher planning an educational tour abroad, you might be wondering how you can make the trip even more memorable and engaging for your students. One idea you might consider is incorporating professional sports into your itinerary.

Professional sports are a big part of many cultures around the world, and attending a game or visiting a sports arena can offer your students a unique and exciting perspective on the country you're visiting. Here are a few reasons why you might want to consider adding a sports-related activity to your itinerary:

1. Cultural Immersion: Sports are a significant part of many countries' cultural fabric, and attending a game or visiting a stadium can provide your students with a glimpse into the local customs and traditions. For example, if you're traveling to Europe, you might take your students to a soccer game, which is a hugely popular sport throughout the continent.

2. Language Practice: Attending a sports game or visiting a stadium can provide a unique opportunity for your students to practice their language skills. They can engage with locals, learn new vocabulary related to the sport, and practice speaking and listening in a real-world context.

3. Team Building: Attending a sports game or visiting a stadium can be a great way to build camaraderie and teamwork among your students. They can bond over their shared excitement for the game and work together to navigate the unfamiliar environment.

   So, how can you incorporate professional sports into your educational tour abroad? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

   • Attend a professional sports game: Depending on where you're traveling, you might be able to attend a soccer, rugby, cricket, or baseball game, among others. Check the local schedules and see if you can purchase tickets in advance.

   • Take a stadium tour: If attending a game isn't an option, consider taking your students on a tour of a local sports stadium. They can learn about the history of the team and the sport, see the locker rooms and training facilities, and even walk onto the field or court.

   • Meet with local athletes: Depending on the sport and the team, you might be able to arrange a meet-and-greet with local athletes. This can provide your students with a unique opportunity to learn about the sport from a pro and ask questions about their training, career, and life as an athlete.

Check out one of our very own Tour Director Lectures on the importance of sports:

Overall, incorporating professional sports into your educational tour abroad can provide your students with a fun, exciting, and educational experience. It can also help them to better understand and appreciate the local culture, language, and customs. So why not consider adding a sports-related activity to your itinerary on your next trip abroad?