Thirty two students and members of the FIFA/CIES International University Network participated in a study tour which took place from 17 to 20 October within the framework of the Copa Libertadores Femenina Ecuador 2022.
The participants, who came from Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Puerto Rico, enjoyed a programme combining academic aspects and practical field visits organised by Paul Román and Emilio Arias from the Universidad de Las Américas (UDLA), CIES academic partner in Ecuador, as well as William Poveda and Sebastián Rubio, who are CIES Coordinators.
As part of the visit they explored backstage of the competition in two arenas (Gonzalo Pozo Ripalda-Aucas stadium and Rodrigo Paz Delgado stadium) where the matches Alianza Lima vs Santiago Morning and Deportivo Cali vs Always Ready took place. They also had the opportunity to visit the "Centro de Alto Rendimiento" of Club Independiente del Valle and the Banco de Guayaquil stadium. Furthermore, they had a memorable brunch at the headquarters of the Ecuadorian Football Federation in Quito.
In addition, the participants attended lectures and presentations on various aspects of sports event organisation and related topical issues. After a welcome message by Paul Román, Director of the FIFA/CIES International Programme, they listened to María Sol Muñoz, who is a member of the FIFA and CONMEBOL Councils, who spoke on the subject of "Equality on and off the field of play". Later, Carlos Valenzuela, Vicepresidente Operaciones y Commercial de Tigres de Monterrey, commented on "The development of women's football in Mexico". Furhermore, Thiago Jannuzzi, informed the participants about "The planning and organisation of the Copa America and the Copa Libertadores Femenina". Finally, representatives from Club Independiente Valle revealed aspects of their professional responsibilities, particularly in the areas of marketing and training.
Those who wanted to go further had the opportunity to attend the "Sport Summit Innovation" organised by UDLA, during which they could, among other things, learn about the impact of start-ups in the sports industry.
There were also moments of relaxation and conviviality with networking activities including an initiation to padel!
It is clear from the testimonies received that the entire study programme was an enriching experience for all participants and an excellent complement to the FIFA/CIES International Programme in Sports Management.
A big thank you to all the entities and individuals who participated in the organisation of this event as well as to the lecturers for their work, support, motivation and the sharing of their experiences and passion for sport.