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Students Experience French Sports Culture on ‘Vive Le Sport’ in France
Twelve Seton Hall University undergraduate students recently embarked on the “Vive
Le Sport” study abroad trip to France, an experiential learning journey combining
French sports and culture. Led by Daniel Ladik, Ph.D., associate professor of marketing in the Stillman School of Business, and Alex Requena, a Ph.D. candidate from the College of Human Development, Culture, and Media (CHDCM) who lived in France for nine years, the trip provided firsthand exposure
to international sports management and media practices.
The group visited three cities — Paris, Lyon and Marseille — immersing themselves
in the European sports landscape while also embracing a new culture, language and
way of life. Among the students were Jeremy Son, Sean Casey and Jonathan Rivera from
CHDCM’s Sports Media program. For many, it was their first trip to Europe, broadening
their perspectives on the global sports industry.
Paris: Exploring Olympic Legacy and Professional Sports
The journey began in the French capital, which hosted the Summer Olympics this year.
Students explored the Olympic legacy and visited key venues from the Games. Highlights
included a meeting with Paris Saint-Germain executives and attending their 4-1 victory
over Lille at Parc des Princes. The group also watched Paris Basketball, owned by
American investors, compete in a EuroLeague game at the Adidas Arena against Fenerbahçe.
A visit to Roland Garros, home of the French Open, further enriched their understanding
of France’s rich sports history. Cultural activities included visits to the Eiffel
Tower, Notre Dame — which recently reopened after years of restoration — and the Louvre
Museum.
Lyon: A Blend of Sports and Gastronomy
The second stop was Lyon, a city known for its strong sports culture and world-class
cuisine. Students toured LDLC Arena, home to the ASVEL Lyon basketball team and owned
by Tony Parker, and Groupama Stadium, home of Olympique Lyonnais, where the U.S. Women’s
National Team won the 2019 World Cup. Beyond sports, the group explored Lyon’s culinary
scene and historic landmarks, experiencing firsthand why the city is considered France’s
gastronomic capital.
Marseille: A Passion for Soccer and A Grande Finale
The trip concluded in Marseille, where students visited the iconic Orange Vélodrome,
the second-largest stadium in France and home to Olympique de Marseille (OM). They
attended an OM match against RC Lens, experiencing the passionate atmosphere of French
football. A nature walk through the stunning Calanques National Park was a highlight,
along with a side trip to Aix-en-Provence. Students also participated in an exchange
session with sports management master’s students from Kedge Business School Marseille,
gaining a comparative perspective on sports business education.
Student Perspective: A Life-Changing Experience
CHDCM student Jeremy Son reflected on the experience, saying, “Traveling has always
been my biggest hobby. Post-COVID, during my junior and senior years of high school,
I was able to travel to Europe with my family for the first time. Since that trip,
France was on my bucket list. I’m glad I took the step to join this study abroad trip.
I had an amazing time, and it helped me decide to pursue a graduate degree abroad
with an emphasis in Sports Business and Sports Media.”
“Seton Hall emphasizes the importance of global experiences for students, where international
perspectives can enhance career opportunities,” said Ladik. “The university extends
its gratitude to the teams and organizations that hosted students and provided invaluable
insights into the world of sports business and media. Their generosity and expertise
made this trip a transformative educational experience for all participants.”
Categories:
Nation and World
