ECU Sport & Community Development Lab

We made it to Day 10!!☀️

The final day of the London & Amsterdam Study Abroad program was filled with sunshine, Dutch culture, and one last adventure together.

The group began the day at Simonehoeve, where students enjoyed a traditional cheese tasting and learned about the art of Dutch clog making. Next, they visited Volendam for a stroopwafel cooking demonstration and tasting before exploring the charming waterfront village.

The afternoon brought the group to Zaanse Schans, where students had time to explore the historic windmill village before visiting the operational sawmill Het Jonge Schaap and learning about its role in Dutch history and craftsmanship.

To close out an unforgettable 10 days abroad, the group gathered for a farewell dinner to celebrate new experiences, friendships, and memories made across London and Amsterdam. ❤️

A special thank you to our incredible faculty, guides, and everyone who helped make this experience possible. And thank you to everyone who followed along throughout our journey! 🌍✈️

From the classroom to the studio 🇳🇱🎙️📚

Day 9 began at Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, where students heard from former Olympian Dr. Henk Hille about the differences between sport structures in Europe and the United States. The group also learned from Dr. Peter van Paassen about building talent development pathways and the systems that help athletes reach the highest levels of competition.

Following the presentations, students joined ISMB students from the university for discussions on contemporary issues in sport from an international perspective, gaining valuable insight into how sport is viewed and managed around the world.

To wrap up the day, the group visited ESPN Netherlands, where they toured the studios and got a behind the scenes look at sports reporting, production, and broadcasting.

Follow us as we wrap up our study abroad experience in London & Amsterdam! ✈️

Learning a new sport in Amsterdam 🇳🇱🏀

Day 7 brought ECU students to Topsport Amsterdam at Sportcentrum Ookmeer, where they learned about elite sport and the role sports clubs play throughout Amsterdam and the Netherlands.

Students then stepped onto the court to experience one of the country’s most unique sports: Korfball. After learning the rules and fundamentals of the game, the group put their skills to the test with shooting drills before facing off in a friendly competition.

Follow us for more daily recaps as the journey through Amsterdam continues! 🌍✈️

From London to Amsterdam 🇬🇧➡️🇳🇱

On Day 6, our group of 28 ECU students said goodbye to London and made their way to Amsterdam for the next chapter of the European Sports Industry Study Abroad program.

After arriving, students had the opportunity to experience the city by both boat and foot. The day began with a guided canal cruise through Amsterdam’s iconic waterways, followed by a walking tour of Old City Centre, where narrow streets, cozy cafés, and picturesque canals brought the city’s history to life.

Follow us for more daily recaps as the journey continues in Amsterdam! 🌍✈️

From Tower Bridge to Big Ben 🇬🇧✨

Day 5 gave ECU students the opportunity to explore London at their own pace with Hop-On, Hop-Off bus tickets across the city.

In today’s recap, follow along with one ECU student for a “day in the life” around London, featuring iconic landmarks, city views, and everything that made the day unforgettable. 🏙️🧳

Follow us for more daily recaps as the journey continues in Amsterdam! 🌍✈️

From touring Stamford Bridge to experiencing it on match day 💙⚽️

Day 4 brought ECU students back to Chelsea F.C., but this time as fans. The group had the opportunity to experience the Harris Suite while watching Chelsea Women take on Manchester United F.C. at Stamford Bridge.

After an exciting Chelsea win, students stayed in the suite to watch the FA Cup Final.

Follow us for more daily recaps as the journey through London and Amsterdam continues! 🌍✈️

From Centre Court to Craven Cottage 🎾⚽️

Day 3 brought the group to two incredible venues across London. First, students got an inside look into the global branding of The Championships, Wimbledon, including visits to The Hill, No. 1 Court, and the iconic Centre Court.

Fun fact from the tour: Chancellor Rogers once competed against John Isner in his high school state championship. Isner later became part of Wimbledon history after competing in the longest match in tennis history at Wimbledon. 🎾

Next, the group visited Fulham F.C. and historic Craven Cottage. Before touring the stadium, students also had the opportunity to learn more about the club’s newest development, Fulham Pier, and its impact on the fan experience and surrounding community.

Follow us for more daily recaps as the group travels throughout London and Amsterdam! 🌍✈️