See the Natural & Soccer Wonders of Iceland

by TopDrawerSoccer

January 15, 2025

Soccer’s global popularity means that just about any U.S.-based team can head abroad for the trip of a lifetime.

The appeal of continental Europe is obvious, given the centrality of the game there. College programs seeking a trip abroad can spin a globe and point to any number of countries.

Few countries, however, can blend the culture of soccer with natural wonders quite like Iceland. Over the past couple of years, a trickle of NCAA teams have made the relatively short hop to the island nation, working with Iceland Soccer Travel to improve themselves on and off the pitch.

Iowa took its allowed international trip in 2024.

“Over the course of the 10 days in Iceland, our team not only played games, but truly bonded as a team,” head coach Dave Dilanni said. “We shared victories, hikes, black sand beaches, waterfalls, challenges, and moments of growth on and off the field. In the end, it wasn’t just about the matches we played, but the memories we created together, the lessons we learned, and the unbreakable connections we built that will last far beyond this trip. That connection carried the team through the summer and Fall. Being able to have those shared experiences created a team built on resilience and trust.”

During the trip, teams play against local Icelandic clubs, offering high-level competition and a chance to experience Iceland’s vibrant soccer culture against top-tier opponents. Participants explore Iceland’s natural wonders, including the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes – locations that can’t be found anywhere else on earth.

A robust coaching education program has played a pivotal role in elevating soccer in a country with a population of just under 400,000. That’s another benefit to making the trip, boosting a staff’s educational opportunity.

Another Big Ten side, Nebraska took a trip in May 2023 with Iceland Soccer Travel. Head coach John Walker felt that it laid the groundwork for the team’s success later that fall (Big Ten Championship and a run to the Elite Eight).

“I have taken our team on many international trips but I can honestly say that this was the best trip largely due to the professionalism of Iceland Tours,” he said. “We went on to have an outstanding 2023 fall season and I feel that the foundation for that success emanated from our team’s experience in Iceland. It was truly a memorable and impactful experience for our players.”

Trips to Iceland are not just limited to college teams. Iceland Soccer Tours operates the ReyCup, a renowned international tournament held every year. Hosted annually in Reykjavik, it is open to a wide range of age groups, providing high-level competition while emphasizing fun and camaraderie. Matches are held on Reykjavik’s top-tier soccer pitches, creating a premier experience for players and spectators alike. The 2025 edition is open to both boys and girls club teams from the 2009-2012 age groups.

Considering that Iceland is roughly a five-hour flight from the East Coast of the United States, it is not too dissimilar for clubs making a cross-country trip for a national event or showcase. Players can train, compete and explore Iceland all in one trip, extending the stay beyond the ReyCup.

The options are plentiful for teams seeking an adventure abroad. Iceland Soccer Travel is here to open up the possibilities.