May 1, 2008

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. - Following final exams the Wake Forest soccer team is Brazil bound. The squad is preparing for a ten day excursion through the fútbol paradise that includes matches with top club teams, training sessions and community service. The team will leave Winston-Salem on May 9 and return on May 19, spending time in both Sao Paulo and Rio.

The Demon Deacons will have four full team matchups with South America's best. The squad will open play with one of the top university teams in the country, UniSanta, and follow with some of Brazil's best club teams, including Santos, Sao Paolo and Flamengo.

In addition to head-to-head action, the Deacons will attend professional league, domestic cup and Copa Libertadores matches as well as professional training sessions at the world famous Sao Paulo Football Club Training Facility and the Santos Football Club.

Wake Forest will also have unique team training opportunities, including beach soccer and Futsal.

On May 14, Wake will make a social support trip to the Brazilian Favelas in Sao Paulo, home to some of the most underprivileged youth in the country. The Deacs will distribute gear they've collected throughout the year, including shoes, socks, shorts, jerseys, balls and other equipment to families in the area.

That evening the Deacons will have a 7-on-7 matchup with local club EC Pinheiros.

The team will also get a chance to sightsee in some of the most scenic locations on Earth, including Corcovado Mountain (home of the Christ Redeemer Statue), Sugar Loaf, and Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro as well as several Sao Paulo locations. Soccer specific points of interest are also on the docket, including the Pele Museum and the world famous Maracana Stadium.

WakeForestSports.com will feature a blog by the players and coaches as they travel the country. Check the men's soccer homepage for updates or sign up for email notices here.

- www.WakeForestSports.com -