The first week of November wasn't a normal week for Aryssa Mahrt.  Instead of being in Phoenix, Arizona at the ECNL Natioanl Event, Mahrt spent the first week of November training in France with Olympic Lyon as part of the Adidas ESP (Elite Soccer Program) on the soccer trip of a lifetime.

Mahrt, along with 21 other players, was selected as one of the "best of the best" from the top Adidas clubs in the country and was invited to join Olympic Lyon for a week of training, development, and competition.

"The Adidas ESP Lyon Training Program was an unforgettable experience," said Mahrt. "Being able to play with other great ECNL players from around the country in a completely new environment was such a great opportunity, but being able to train and compete with some of the best female players in France was a once in a lifetime experience.  They played a very technical, fast-paced game. With so many technical players, the French teams were able to find a rhythm and consistency to control the game." 

"The experiences I was able to take away from this opportunity will definitely have an impact on the way I see and play the game.  I felt really comfortable and prepared for the environment when I got there, and I feel good about the way I played throughout the week."

Congratulations to Aryssa on her selection!

For a glimpse of the event, click here!