CHICAGO – Loyola University Chicago men's soccer head coach Steve Bode has announced plans for a 10-day team excursion to Italy. Scheduled for Feb. 28 – March 9, 2025, the trip will include stops in Milan, Lake Como, Parma, and Rome.
The journey is more than just a sightseeing opportunity—it's a chance for cultural immersion, team bonding, and personal growth. The Ramblers will also compete in two friendly matches as part of their preparation for the fall 2025 season.
"We've been planning this trip for over a year now and could not be more excited for this opportunity for our student-athletes. The goal of the trip is to really immerse ourselves in Italian culture and do it all together as a team. We are fortunate to be able to visit some of the most iconic historical sites in the world. For many of our student-athletes, this will be their first trip outside the U.S. This will offer a chance to immerse in a new culture, create lifetime memories, and strengthen bonds that will enhance our performance for years to come," Bode added.
Italy's rich soccer culture, deeply woven into the fabric of its cities and communities, will add a unique dimension to the trip. From passionate fanbases to historic clubs that have shaped the sport, the Ramblers will immerse themselves in a nation where soccer is more than just a game—it's a way of life. The team's itinerary includes a special stop in Parma, made possible through a connection with Tanner Krause, a Loyola soccer alumnus who played for the Ramblers from 2005 to 2008. Krause is the son of Kyle Krause, owner of Parma Calcio 1913 and CEO of the Krause Group. This connection has provided the team with an extraordinary opportunity to tour the club's facilities.
"The overall plan is to fly from Chicago into Milan, visit Lake Como and then work our way south to Rome, with stops in Florence and Parma in between. We're especially excited about our stop in Parma because we have a strong connection with the club Parma Calcio 1913, thanks to Tanner Krause and his family. In Rome, we'll explore many historical sites and fully embrace everything Italy has to offer," Bode said.
During their journey, the Maroon and Gold will compete in two friendly matches, one in Parma and another in Rome, providing a valuable opportunity to sharpen their skills ahead of the 2025 season. These matches will not only allow the team to fine-tune their tactics and fitness but also help build on-field chemistry in a competitive setting.
"Steve Watson, our athletic director, has been incredible in supporting this initiative. The last team trip was taken in 2020 to Peru and many of our alumni often reminiscence about the trip. We're thrilled that our current student-athletes will now get the opportunity to share in a special trip as well. Loyola's commitment to our student athletes shines through—we ask a lot from our players, so we want to give them experiences they might not otherwise have. THANK YOU also to many of our alumni who made contributions to make this experience a reality - this simply would not happen without you."
