About the Trip
Students travel to Manchester to examine how sport shapes communities, drives urban regeneration, and engages with issues of inclusion and community relations. Through behind-the-scenes access to Manchester City and Manchester United, visits to the National Football Museum and MediaCityUK, and direct engagement with professionals working across sport, media, and community development, students will actively explore the real-world impact of the sports industry on society.
The program is a strong fit for students interested in careers in sport management, media, public policy, community development, and beyond.
Trip Leaders
Group 1: Andrew Jones & Janelle Benner
Group 2: Lisa Grossbauer & Molly O’Rourke-Friel
Andrew Jones is Associate Professor of Modern Languages at Ursinus. Inspired by his many international experiences, he loves introducing students to new cultures and ideas.
Janelle Benner is Ursinus’s Head Field Hockey Coach and will share her expertise in international sports.
Lisa Grossbauer is a Collegiate Assistant Professor of Mathematics & Statistics at Ursinus. She loves sports, especially Philadelphia teams like the Eagles, Sixers, and Phillies, and enjoys exploring the games through the lens of statistics. She loves the passion of Philadelphia sports fans and looks forward to experiencing Manchester’s equally devoted soccer culture with her students.
Molly O’Rourke-Friel is an Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Ursinus. She is excited to share her love of travel with students and help lead discussion of ethical questions that arise when thinking about the role of community and sport in our lives.
Trip Dates:
Sunday, March 7 – Sunday, March 14, 2027 (tentative)
Sample Activities
(subject to change)
- Educational talk and tour of Etihad Stadium focusing on urban regeneration and public policy
- Manchester City Football Academy tour
- Interactive workshop on community-focused initiatives in sport
- Visit to National Football Museum
- Student networking event
- Walking tour of MediaCityUK
