From the Global Football archive · Published 2025-09-23. Event dates and plans reflect the original publication.
As the leaves start to turn and the football season heats up here in the States, the IMG Academy Football team is gearing up for a European adventure. From October 7 to October 14, 2025, the team will embark on their fourth Global Bowl journey, this time heading to the vibrant heart of Spain—Madrid. This isn’t just a game; it’s a full immersion into international football culture, blending high-stakes competition with unforgettable cultural experiences. Organized in partnership with Global Football, this trip promises to sharpen skills, build global connections, and create lifelong memories for these young athletes.
The Spanish Federation of American Football (FEFA) is equally thrilled about the matchup. In a statement, FEFA President José Luis Soler Martín shared:
“On behalf of the Spanish Federation of American Football, it is a true honour to welcome IMG Academy Football to Madrid for this international game versus our U19 National Team. At FEFA, we are committed to offering our young athletes the chance to grow through high-level competition, and facing a program as prestigious as IMG represents an extraordinary opportunity for our players and coaches alike. This match is not only a sporting event — it is a bridge between cultures, a celebration of youth development, and a step forward in the internationalization of American football in Spain. We would like to extend our deepest thanks to IMG Academy for choosing Spain as part of their Ascender Elite series, and to the municipality of Paracuellos de Jarama for their continued support and hospitality. We look forward to an exciting and enriching experience for everyone involved.”
Adding to the excitement, IMG Academy Football Director Kyle Brey expressed enthusiasm, stating:
“We are thrilled to bring IMG Academy Football to Madrid as part of our Ascender Elite series. Competing against the Spain U19 National Team is a unique opportunity for our student-athletes to grow both on and off the field, while also building international connections through the game of football. We’re grateful to our partners in Spain and to the city of Paracuellos for hosting us, and we look forward to showcasing IMG football on this global stage.”
These sentiments highlight the mutual anticipation and collaboration driving this event. The Spanish team will be led by legendary Spanish coach, Marcos Guilres. Guirles stands as a cornerstone of American football in Spain, serving as the head coach of the Spanish U19 National Team that will face off against IMG Academy in the 2025 Global Bowl. With over two decades of dedication to the sport, Guirles has been instrumental in elevating the game domestically and internationally. A true pioneer, he began his journey with the Barcelona Dragons in NFL Europe in 1995 as equipment manager, working under legendary head coach Jack Bicknell, before transitioning to running backs coach for the team from 2000 until its disbandment in 2003. His career also includes a stint with the New York Jets from 1998 to 2000, where he contributed to an NFL playoff semifinal run, and he later served as the NFL’s chief scout in Mexico from 2004 to 2010. Guirles’ extensive experience, including founding the Barcelona Uroloki club and a 15+ year tenure coaching Spain’s national squads, brings tactical insight to the Spanish team.
A Legacy of Global Gridiron Adventures
IMG Academy Football has made a name for itself not just on American fields but around the world. This marks another international outing, following successful trips that have taken them to places like Ireland, Mexico, Japan, Germany, and beyond. The Global Bowl series is all about expanding horizons—exposing players to different styles of play, fostering international camaraderie, and combining athletics with education.
The Itinerary
The eight-day itinerary is packed with action, starting from wheels up in the USA and ending with a triumphant return home. Here’s a day-by-day breakdown, highlighting the football elements while weaving in the cultural and experiential highlights that will enrich the players’ perspectives.
- Day 1: Tuesday – Departure and Flight to Spain The adventure kicks off with a transatlantic flight from the USA to Spain. It’s a time for rest, team bonding, and mental preparation—players will arrive ready to hit the ground running (or tackling) in Madrid.
- Day 2: Wednesday – Arrival and Orientation Touching down in the afternoon, the team dives right into the Spanish vibe with a guided panoramic city tour of Madrid. This sets the stage for the week, offering glimpses of iconic landmarks and the city’s energetic pulse. After transferring to their quality accommodations, it’s check-in time followed by a team dinner. The evening wraps with treatment sessions and academics, ensuring the players stay sharp both physically and mentally from the get-go.
- Day 3: Thursday – First Practice and City Exploration Football takes center stage early. After breakfast, academics, and a team meeting, the Ascenders transfer to Paracuellos for a 90-minute practice session—the first of three dedicated practices on the trip. This is where the team hones their strategies and adapts to the international environment. Post-practice, a restaurant lunch fuels them for cultural immersion: a visit to the historic Las Ventas Bullring, followed by a guided city walking tour. The day ends with dinner and more academics, balancing sport with learning.
- Day 4: Friday – Clinics, Practice, and Soccer Royalty Building on the momentum, the team heads back to Paracuellos for another practice, with local students cheering from the stands for added energy. A 30-minute on-field clinic with local high school students follows, allowing IMG players to share techniques and build bridges with Spanish youth footballers—this is one of two coaching clinics designed to promote the global growth of the game. After changing in the locker rooms and grabbing a restaurant lunch, the afternoon shifts to inspiration: a tour of Real Madrid’s stadium, Europe’s top club venue. The day continues with explorations of Madrid’s historic center, the Royal Palace, and Plaza Mayor, wrapping up with dinner and a team meeting to debrief and strategize.
- Day 5: Saturday – Game Prep and Local Connections With game day looming, the focus intensifies. Breakfast leads into a transfer to the game stadium for a walk-through session, fine-tuning plays on the actual field. Then comes a 45-minute on-field clinic with players and coaches from Madrid-area football clubs, emphasizing skill-sharing and cultural exchange in the sport. The afternoon includes treatment and academics, followed by dinner and another team meeting to lock in the game plan.
- Day 6: Sunday – Game Day Glory This is the pinnacle—the Global Bowl game against the Spanish U19 Select, with a 1:00 PM kickoff. Expect intense competition as IMG’s elite talent clashes with Spain’s rising stars, showcasing American football on an international stage. Post-game photos on the field capture the triumph, followed by dinner on their own, giving the team a chance to explore Madrid’s culinary scene and reflect on the matchup.
- Day 7: Monday – Recovery and Cultural Deep Dive After the adrenaline of game day, the team enjoys a well-deserved breakfast before transferring to the historic town of Toledo. A guided tour includes a visit to a sword and knife factory, tying into Spain’s rich medieval heritage. The afternoon is for walking, shopping, and soaking in the atmosphere, culminating in an awards celebration dinner to honor the top Global Ambassadors.
- Day 8: Tuesday – Homeward Bound A final breakfast precedes the airport transfer for the return flight, and same-day arrival back in the USA.
Beyond the Field: Lasting Impact
For the Ascenders, this fourth Global Bowl with Global Football is more than a trip—it’s a transformative experience. They’ll return with sharpened football acumen from international play, memories of Madrid, and the satisfaction of representing American football abroad. Stay tuned for updates as the team takes on Spain—follow IMG Academy Football for live coverage and highlights. Go Ascenders!