Nowadays, opportunities to travel and study abroad are more and more accessible, many young Italian female athletes are choosing to pursue academics and sports in the United States. In a recent video interview, we had the opportunity to speak with three of these female athletes-Martina Parisi, Francesca Sena, and Francesca Co. These girls, all student-athletes at different U.S. colleges (Wagner College and Lasalle College in New York and Philadelphia), shared their experiences, challenges, and successes.
The Overseas Leap
Martina, Francesca, and Francesca all made the decision to move to the United States to study and continue practicing their sport, water polo, at a competitive level. Despite the language and cultural challenges, all three agree that the experience was incredibly enriching.
Martina emphasized how the experience allowed her to grow not only as an athlete, but also as an individual. She spoke of the need to adapt to a new environment, a new language, and a new culture, and how these challenges helped her become more independent.
Francesca shared a similar sentiment, emphasizing how the experience allowed her to mature and become more independent. She talked about how life in the United States forced her to learn how to manage things on her own, from household chores to getting used to a new city.
The Challenges and Rewards
Despite the challenges, all three girls agreed that it was all worth it. They talked about how the opportunity to study and practice their sport in the United States enriched them in ways they could not have imagined.
Francesca talked about how the experience allowed her to learn about new cultures and people. She emphasized how these interactions helped her grow as an individual and as an athlete.
Martina shared an anecdote about how she had the opportunity to see a surfboard signed by Bethany Hamilton, a famous surfer, in a store in New York City. This moment, she said, was one of many that made the experience in the United States so unique and memorable.
Advice for Future Female Athletes
When asked what advice they would give to other young female athletes considering studying in the United States, all three girls stressed the importance of not being afraid to face challenges.
Francesca advised not to wait until the last minute to make the decision. She stressed the importance of being confident in one’s choice and not letting the fear of failure prevent one from pursuing one’s dreams. She also stressed the importance of seeing the experience as an opportunity for personal growth, regardless of where you end up.
Martina advised not to stop at anything. She stressed that obstacles are made to be overcome and that, with the right determination and commitment, nothing is impossible.
The second Francesca stressed the importance of trying, emphasizing that even if things do not go as planned, the experience will still be enriching.
Conclusion
The experience of these three Italian water polo players in the United States is an example of how sports can open doors to unique opportunities. Despite the challenges and difficulties, all three agree that the experience was incredibly enriching and that they would advise other young female athletes to consider a similar path. Whether it is growing as individuals, gaining new experiences, or pursuing one’s athletic dreams, studying and playing sports in the United States can offer unique and valuable opportunities.
