Returning home with new experiences, perspectives and relationships
A week in Mexico with the IU men's soccer team gave four sports media students new experiences and unprecedented access, writes senior Eddie Cotton.
Day one: What started as a simple idea is now a reality. We have arrived in Mexico City, and we are ready to cover the Indiana men’s soccer team during its week-long tour south of the border.
It has been a tiring day, mainly due to the lack of sleep we got last night. This was due to a mix between great excitement and fear of not hearing our multiple set alarms for early Friday morning. But thankfully, after two long but comfortable flights, we made it to the capital city of Mexico, home to more than 8 million people — a little bit bigger than Bloomington.
Our first impressions of the city were nothing but of surprise and admiration. We were amazed about how big this place is. Even from miles up in the sky, we could not see an end to it. Once we touched ground, it got even bigger.
We passed through immigration services quickly and went on an hour-long Uber ride through the city on our way to the hotel.
During the long drive, it was really a sight to see how active Mexico City is in comparison to home. In my opinion, this city moves at an even faster pace than most cities in America, and maybe only New York and Los Angeles can compare.
Once we got to our hotel, we relaxed for a little bit. Then we went on our first cultural excursion: dinner at La Vicenta Restaurant. Our meal, which consisted of guacamole and tacos, was a culinary experience we will not forget. We were all delighted with the number of exotic flavors those simple dishes had. We left the place on an optimistic note, since we knew this was only day one of amazing food.
After returning from dinner, we awaited the arrival of the soccer team at the lobby of the hotel. A few hours later, the Hoosiers arrived, and they were just as excited to be in Mexico as we were.
It was a little late, so our interactions with the players were brief, yet good. As we returned to our rooms, the excitement only grew for both the reporters and players, knowing tomorrow will be an amazing day where we will get the chance to tour one of the soccer cathedrals of the world.
A stadium that hosted two World Cup finals and where Diego Maradona scored two of the most legendary goals in the game’s history. The home to the Aguilas of America: the legendary Estadio Azteca.
Day one in Mexico did not only live up to the expectations — it surpassed them. We can’t wait to see what is in store for us next. But one thing is for sure: This country will not take too long to steal our hearts.