Bridget Carleton: Greetings From Spain

Hey Cyclone Nation,

Hope everyone is doing well and enjoying summer!

I am currently in Palencia, Spain playing with the Canadian Senior Women's National Team! We arrived in Spain on Wednesday morning after a long over night flight (the jet lag is real.)

Before coming to Europe, we were training in Edmonton at the University of Alberta (this is northwest of Iowa... In other words, a 3 hour flight from my house). When I first got the invite for this phase of the senior tryout, I was extremely anxious. First, because I was the youngest player invited, and second, I didn't know any of the athletes or coaches that would be attending. But, after a very short period of time, I felt extremely welcomed and comfortable with everyone. During camp, we often had an individualized workout, a strength and conditioning workout and a practice every day. We were at training camp for 6 days before I got selected to be a part of the roster for this trip. Then, four days later we left for Spain!

We start our competitive schedule on Saturday against Spain, and continue it Sunday against Cuba. On Monday, we leave for France, where we will play against France, Australia and China before returning home on June 10th. This is a huge opportunity for me to learn from the best players in the country and some of the best players in the world. This is the level I've always dreamed of playing and it is very rewarding to see all of the hard work I've put in thus far pay off.

Also, I am very excited to get back to Ames to start my sophomore year!!

Go Canada and GO STATE!

- Bridget Carleton