The UEFA Champions League (abbreviated as UCL) is an annual club football competition organized by the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA), for top-division European clubs. It might represent the highest caliber of competition in the world, and involves the most prestigious clubs in European football, including national league champions (and, for some nations, one or more runners-up) from the strongest UEFA national association.

Last year, the final of Champions League tournament drew 380 million viewers (according to vocative.com) , more than the Super Bowl.

Locally, it also has captured the imagination of the Mount Carmel soccer team, which  gathers frequently after school to watch the Champions League games, especially when the big teams face off.

MC soccer coach Mr. Manny Medina hosts the team to watch the games on the big-screen TV in his classroom, 308.  The games usually start before school ends, so the team gathers after 2:40 to watch at least the second half of the game.

The teams that gather the most interest  are the bigger teams such as Barcelona, Real Madrid and Juventus.  But in addition to providing an opportunity to enjoy high caliber play, tradition has become a positive experience that brings the team together to watch the sport we enjoy and to bond as a brotherhood.

The team is looking forward to watching next week’s match between Juventus and Athletico Madrid on Tuesday.  If you haven’t checked out the Champions League, you might want to wander up to 308 or tune in yourself at home.