Day 9 - Sightseeing in Bellagio Region

By Kaitlin Sanders, So, F, Kendallville, Ind.

We once again started off the day with the usual breakfast of bread, pastries, cereal and meat. We then departed for training. Practice was light and we all had fun as we were joined by Geoff and Mr. Stapp.

After arriving back at the hotel, we all enjoyed a delicious Italian lunch. The kitchen staff prepared all of the food wonderfully. We all devoured our lasagna appetizer, the main course of lemon chicken and french fries, and finally our lemon cake dessert.

In the early afternoon we had the option of trying out the local public transportation. Those who wished caught the local bus into Como. The majority of those partaking on the small trip missed out on the shopping the previous day because they were apart of the mountain climbing expedition. Storms had occupied the morning sky, but when the time came to travel to Como, the sun shone and the afternoon became warm and great for shopping.

Girls returned to the bus later that afternoon with bags and bags of purchases. Thomas, his bus, and those who stayed behind at the hotel then picked up the shoppers. Thus began our journey to Milan!

I do not think anyone was prepared for what we were about to experience. We arrived at the stadium for the AC Milan vs Juventus exhibition game, and walked straight into the experience of a lifetime.

The enormous, breathtaking stadium - seating over 80,000 - immediately caught everyone's eye. Fans swarmed the souvenir and snack stands that surrounded the stadium. It was hard to believe that all of this hype was caused by just and exhibition game!

After we all grabbed some dinner and bought some merchandise, we entered the stadium and took our seats in the cheering section. The atmosphere was amazing! Fans chanted the entire game in support of their team. The passion was one that, in my opinion, can not be found at any American sporting event.

At the end of the night, AC Milan came out on top 2 - 0, and we returned to Como with the knowledge that we were all just a part of something that many only dream of experiencing.