#VarsityRome Day 2: Rome Sweet Rome

Rome, sweet Rome! This group of cheerleaders, dancers and drum majors all across the United States earned the opportunity to call the city of Rome “home” this week. After a full day of travel yesterday and catching up with the time change, this group was eager to explore Italy’s capital. Just like they say, “When in Rome!”

Each group loaded their coach to head to the heart of Rome to watch history unfold before their eyes. By way of walking tour, we visited some of Rome’s main attractions, including the famous Spanish Steps, whose unique design and elegance has made it a popular place for artists, painters and poets to ponder and gain some inspiration. Just a short walk away lives the beautiful Trevi Fountain – Did you know if you throw a coin from your right hand over your left shoulder into the water, that you’re destined to return to Rome? Many took their chance, and unloaded quite a few euro coins into water! Lastly, we ended our walking tour with the breathtaking Pantheon, whose exact age remains unknown. However, when you walk inside, the spectacular design, proportions, elegance and harmony are a striking reminder of the architecture of the great Roman Empire. With sites like these, no one was missing out on the perfect photo op that day.

After appreciating much of Rome’s beauty, most of the group explored another main attraction that Italy is known for – Fashion! There was something about strolling the roads of Piazza Navona and Campo de’ Fiori that made you feel a true appreciation for Italian culture. And of course, the decadent cafés, authentic pizza and gourmet pasta were the icing on the (cheese)cake!

After our adventurous day, each performance group met for their first rehearsal here in Rome. They introduced themselves to new friends, set their formations and completed many run-throughs. Each dancer, cheerleader and drum major left practice confident, and excited to get to bed. Set your alarms early tomorrow… We’re heading north to Florence!

Ciao!