North Island soccer team safe in Spain – Comox Valley Record

The U-16 Marine Harvest Riptide are currently in Europe; in Spain

North Island soccer team safe in Spain

U-16 Marine Harvest Riptide's travel plans unaffected by Brussels bombings

Mar. 22, 2016 11:00 a.m.
News

Erin Haluschak

Record Staff

Despite Tuesday’s devastating Brussels airport bombings, one group travelling to Europe from the North Island, including members from the Comox Valley, are safe in Spain.

The Marine Harvest Riptide U16 boys soccer team travelled to Barcelona last week for a 11-day trip to the country.

Coach Mark Purcell confirmed via email to The Record the situation in Brussels has not affected the team’s plans. Their itinerary has them remaining in Barcelona for the duration of the 11-day trip.

“We are on a small beach near Barcelona so we feel very safe. More teams have arrived at our hotel from Australia, Norway and Qatar. The energy is very positive and the spirit is good.”

He added the boys are largely not aware of the events that have taken place in Europe.

“We express sincere sympathy towards those affected in this terrible tragedy and as ever, feel a great appreciation of Canada.”

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