From April 9 to 13, our varsity teams embarked on a truly unforgettable journey to Ikast, Denmark, marking the first time our athletics program has taken part in an international sports camp of this kind.
In collaboration with the Basketball Star Academy, we traveled with a delegation of 21 student-athletes from our women’s volleyball, men’s basketball, and women’s basketball teams, accompanied by two coaches and two athletics staff members. What unfolded over those five days was far more than a training camp: it was a life-changing experience.
This opportunity would not have been possible without the extraordinary support and vision of the Bruschi family, especially Susanna and Luca, whose dedication and passion brought this initiative to life. Together with the Sports Star College, they created an environment where sport and education seamlessly coexist, fostering the holistic development of young student-athletes.
From the moment we arrived, our teams were welcomed with warmth and generosity. Our student-athletes were fully immersed in campus life, staying in the college dormitories and sharing meals in the cafeteria alongside local students. For five days, they lived the daily rhythm of a system where athletics is not an “extra,” but an integral part of education.
The schedule was intense and purposeful. Days were filled with structured training sessions, friendly matches, and competitive tournament games; each moment was designed to challenge, inspire, and elevate performance. While the level of competition was high, the spirit remained grounded in sportsmanship, mutual respect, and shared passion.
Our Gladiators rose to the occasion with pride. Whether celebrating victories or processing tough losses, they represented John Cabot University with integrity, resilience, and respect, values that define our athletics program both on and off the court.
Beyond the courts, this experience also offered a meaningful cultural exchange. The group had the opportunity to explore Danish traditions and visit the iconic LEGO House in Billund, gaining insight into the history and creativity behind one of the world’s most beloved brands, The LEGO Group. From snowy mornings to windy evenings, from discovering Danish cuisine to navigating a packed daily schedule, every moment contributed to a rich and memorable journey.
We are also grateful for the presence of Giordana Mongardini, who was in Ikast for recruitment activities during our stay. Her collaboration allowed our athletics staff to present JCU’s sports programs to prospective students, opening the door to future student-athletes who may one day join our community.
This experience reinforced something we strongly believe in: sport is not separate from education, it is a powerful extension of it. Through sport, our students develop discipline, adaptability, teamwork, and leadership in ways that no classroom alone can provide.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Susanna and Luca Bruschi, College Director Karsten Werge and all the Coaches from Sports Star College, especially Paw Harder, all the staff, and institutions involved, including ISI College, and every individual who worked behind the scenes to make this experience so meaningful.
To our student-athletes: congratulations for embracing this challenge with determination and enthusiasm. You made us proud.
We look forward to continuing this collaboration and hope to welcome our Danish partners to Rome soon, or to return to Ikast for another incredible chapter.
Go Gladiators!
