This Summer, CRYSC International is offering an extraordinary 9-day tour that blends soccer with the rich culture and history of Portugal! 20011-2007 Elite & Competitive Program Players and Families can register TODAY! This trip can make a fantastic end-of-school trip, family vacation, or graduation gift for our high school seniors, as the dates are June 5-13, 2026.

This tour is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for CRYSC athletes to strengthen their love for the sport while being inspired by the world’s best.

For the last three years, more than 700 CRYSC players, families, and staff have taken advantage of the incredible opportunity to join a CRYSC International Tour. Representing all five Rapids regions, these travelers have embraced our “One Club” mentality—forming new friendships, competing together, and experiencing the world through the game they love.

Some players signed up with a teammate. Others took a leap and registered without knowing anyone else. But every traveler returned with the same thing: an unforgettable shared experience.

What are CRYSC Members Saying About Their International Experience?

“What an amazing experience! Having the opportunity to train and play soccer in a foreign country is an opportunity of a lifetime!” — Participating Player

“The trip was a great experience that brought exhilarating fun, memorable moments, and more learning opportunities for players.” — Participating Parent

“The trip was fantastic. The games and stadium tour were one of a kind. A great way for our players to gain perspective from another country and culture, while having the familiarity of a soccer setting.” — Participating CRYSC Staff Coach

Introducing the 2026 CRYSC International Tour: Portugal!

Dates: June 5–13, 2026

Who Can Attend:

Players born 2011–2007 (U15–U19), across all competitive levels
- National Platform (ECNL, ECNL-RL, EAL, DPL, NPL)
- Select, Burgundy, White
Families are encouraged and welcome to join!

This 9-day international soccer and cultural tour offers players and families a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore Lisbon, Porto, and beyond—while training, competing, and experiencing Portugal’s rich football heritage.

What’s Included: Soccer, Culture, & Adventure

On the Field, Players Will:

Compete in international friendly matches against Portuguese clubs
Take part in two professional training clinics run by guest coaches from Portuguese pro academies
Participate in two CRYSC-led team training sessions

Off the Field, Players Will:

Explore the best of Lisbon and Porto, from iconic soccer stadiums to historic neighborhoods, coastal views, and world-class cuisine.

WorldStrides Sports will arrange:

Hotel accommodations
Provided Meals
Sporting Content
Private Bus Transportation
24/7 Bilingual Tour Director

Trip Highlights

Begin in Lisbon: Players and families will kick off the journey in Portugal’s capital city, experiencing:

Belém Tower
Castelo de São Jorge
Benfica’s Estádio da Luz (tour + museum)
Guided cultural tours, training sessions, and team activities

Continue North to Porto: Midway through the trip, the group will travel to one of Europe’s most scenic cities. Highlights include:

FC Porto’s Estádio do Dragão
Exploring the Ribeira District
Matches and training sessions with local clubs
Leisure time along the Douro River

Throughout the tour, players and families will connect with local teams, immerse themselves in Portugal’s soccer culture, and enjoy plenty of time for sightseeing and exploration.

Why This Trip Matters

For players, this tour is more than a vacation—it’s:

A chance to grow in confidence and skill
An opportunity to create meaningful friendships across regions
A unique way to explore new cultures while enjoying the beautiful game

For families, it’s an unforgettable shared experience—one that blends soccer, travel, and quality time together.

Limited Player Spots: Register Early

Space is limited to the first 18 boys and 18 girls players who register to ensure a high-quality training and playing environment.

There is no limit to the number of family members who can attend. Follow this LINK for full registration details and payment plan options.

There are two ways to register:

Go to sportsportal.worldstrides.com with the Tour Center ID:
- Boys: RapidsPortugalB-2026
- Girls: RapidsPortugalG-2026
Call 410-489-2287 with your Tour Center ID, listed above.

Cost per Person:

Full Package Option (inclusive of flights) = $4664
Land-Only Package (travelers book their own flights) = $3385

Discounts, Fundraising, & Scholarships Available

Discounts Available:

Family Discount
- 10% off for 3rd Traveler
- 15% off for 4th+ Travelers
Return Traveler
- Traveled with WorldStrides previously? Receive $100 off!

Fundraising options through WorldStrides Sports:

Gift of Sport (available after registration)
Manchester United Raffle (available after registration)

Additionally, CRYSC offers a limited number of scholarships for players attending the Portugal tour.

If interested, please reach out directly to Jeff Oleck, Director of International Travel (jeff.oleck@rapidsyouthsoccer.org)

We can’t wait to explore Portugal together and create another unforgettable chapter in our club’s international journey! Hope to see you there.

Jeff Oleck
CRYSC Director of International Travel

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