SANTA MONICA — In Nov. 2017, Iceland became the smallest team to qualify for the world cup. In America, sports teams celebrate their big victories by answering what they are going to do next with “We’re going to Disney World!” However, without an iconic theme park nearby, Iceland decided to celebrate their big win a bit differently.
Practicing in the Snow
Contrary to popular belief, Iceland is not covered in ice and is actually a beautiful country covered in moss. However, snow does plague the countryside from October to April, forcing the national team to play friendlies and practice in the snow. According to Aron Gunnarsson’s Instagram, the Iceland National Team was practicing in the snow in March.
Visiting the countryside
The landscape of Iceland is probably one of the most underrated countrysides in the world. Most people don’t know what to expect when they go to visit, but the residents in the country love to get out and enjoy it no matter how long they’ve lived there. Iceland is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls, hot springs and glaciers in the world. You can spend weeks just traveling and exploring all the different climates and landscapes in Iceland, and since November, the members of the Icelandic National Team have been doing just that.
Relaxing
With the pressure of qualifying off their shoulders, the team has been relaxing in their own way, but several members have taken to playing golf when enjoying time off the pitch. While Iceland isn’t known for their golf course, the small country has a beautiful view no matter where the course.
Photos courtesy of Iceland National Team Member’s Instagrams.