Michigan to take educational trip, hold spring practice in Rome

The Wolverines are headed to Italy!

Michigan announced Monday that the program will be travelling to Rome for a week of education and spring practice in April. The team will be training at AS Roma, home of the professional Italian soccer club.

"Over the past few decades student-athletes in other sports have had the opportunity to participate in international training trips and prepare for the upcoming season," Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel said in a statement. "This is a tremendous opportunity for these young men to learn about and experience another culture, connect with the people of Italy, and showcase American football internationally."

Head coach Jim Harbaugh echoed Manuel's sentiments, stressing both the educational and athletic benefits of the experience.

"We were looking to provide our student-athletes with a great educational, cultural and international football experience," Harbaugh said. "I am excited that our student-athletes will be able to take advantage of this amazing educational opportunity, be exposed to another culture, and be ambassadors for the United States and the University of Michigan during our visit to Rome."

The team is scheduled to see historic landmarks throughout the city, as well as visit U.S. military throughout the country. Three out of the fifteen allotted spring practices will be used on the trip.