Iowa Recap!

What a trip! From securing a spot in the MVC tournament to visiting the cutest pumpkin patch, the Belmont women’s soccer team took Iowa by storm.

Day 1: I definitely do not fit the category of being a morning person, and our 3:45 AM departure confirmed that. Thankfully, coffee always does the trick! Upon arrival, we trained at Drake University and then hit the hay after doing some homework back at the hotel.

Day 2: Happy Game Day! Belmont matched up against Drake, but sadly fell 1-0 to the Bulldogs. Prior to the match, we cracked open the books and got to studying. Whether it’s with the group homework party in the lobby or the solo session in the room, our team is really good about managing our time and balancing our demanding schedules. We also visited the local Target and get our legs moving as we ventured down the aisles. I cannot believe there are Christmas items available already, oh what fun!

Day 3: On our off day, the soccer team was able to give back to Iowa by participating in a community service event. After packing up everyday toiletries such as toilet paper, shampoo, conditioner, and toothpaste and mixing in some fun Halloween treats, we headed to the YMCA in downtown Des Moines. This YMCA is specifically a supportive housing campus that provides housing to 140 adults. From individual case management to a fitness center, this facility offers a multitude of supportive services to those in need. It was such an honor to be able to do our part and serve those around us, even though we were just visiting. Later that day, we travelled to Center Grove Orchard. When I tell you that this place had everything, it had everything! Hay rides, corn pool, farm animals, pumpkin patch… you name it, Center Grove had it! I had the most fun at this amazing place, it had all the things fall and made me feel like a kid again. I highly recommend visiting if you ever find yourself in Cambridge, Iowa!

Day 4: After waking up and enjoying our daily breakfast at Bennigan’s, the team departed for Cedar Falls for a pre-game training and a walk on of Northern Iowa’s soccer field. Our home field is turf, so getting a feel for a different field (especially one that is grass) is very helpful. After hitting the books once more, we turned in for the night in preparation for the day to come.

Day 5: Happy Game Day (again)! Coming out with a 0-0 draw, Belmont and NIU were both able to advance into the conference tournament. These two teams will face each other once more for the first round in Chicago. Tune in at 2:00 PM CT to cheer on your favorite Bruins!

Day 6: Home sweet home! It was another early morning in the airport, but coming home to Nashville was worth it. After doing some much needed loads of laundry and reorganizing for our quick turnaround to Chicago, crawling up with a good book and a freshly made bed is truly the best feeling. I highly recommend doing a deep clean before leaving on a trip, coming back to a clean and organized room is very refreshing and stress relieving.

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Let’s have some great big fun today!

XOXO,

Taylor Mae

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