USYF Barcelona Trip 2024
For the second consecutive year, we celebrated Christmas in Europe — a tradition we never expected, but one that’s quickly becoming a cherished part of our family’s journey. In the winter of 2024–25, both of our daughters had the incredible honor of representing the United States in the USYF U15 Girls Futsal National Team. Sommer returned for her second year, and Sydnie made her international debut — a rare and special achievement made possible by the girls’ early dedication to futsal, which they started training in at the age of seven, even before they picked up outdoor soccer.
This year’s international experience took us to Barcelona, Spain — a city overflowing with beauty, history, culture, and of course, world-class football. Although the team’s record on the scoreboard wasn’t ideal, the lessons learned on the court were invaluable. Facing off against Spain’s top youth futsal players provided a powerful learning opportunity. The competition was fast, technical, and relentless — a masterclass in the beautiful game.
One of the most memorable highlights of the trip was a training session held at La Masia, FC Barcelona’s legendary youth academy. For any young footballer, this is sacred ground — a place where legends like Messi, Xavi, and Iniesta were molded. The experience offered a glimpse into the intensity and excellence of elite football development.
We also found time to explore the vibrant city of Barcelona — from Gaudí’s architectural wonders and stunning cathedrals to the excitement of local matches and the thrill of PortAventura World. It’s no exaggeration to say that Barcelona is a city you’ll never want to leave — a perfect blend of food, art, leisure, and sport.
🗺️ Explore Our Interactive Trip Timeline Below is our full interactive recap of the Barcelona trip, including team activities and behind-the-scenes stories.
We invite you to follow our journey in the videos below. Whether it’s the excitement of match days or the awe of visiting iconic sites, each day was packed with unforgettable moments.
