LONDON (AP) — NFL teams visiting London for games have the unique opportunity to delve into local history while preparing for their matchups. The New England Patriots and Jacksonville Jaguars, set to face off at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, are immersing themselves in the rich historical surroundings without even leaving their practice facilities.
The Patriots will be training at the prestigious Harrow School, situated on a hill overlooking London. This school holds significance as it was where Winston Churchill, the renowned statesman who led Britain during World War II, spent his formative years. The Patriots players are encouraged to explore the grand school grounds, including the Speech Room where Churchill once delivered an impressive recitation of 1,200 lines from a poem.
American politicians and sports figures alike have drawn inspiration from Churchill, with his legacy extending beyond his wartime leadership. The Jaguars, on the other hand, practice near a site with historical significance dating back to World War II. The Grove estate in Watford, where the team's practice field is located, was once a refuge from German bombing, complete with air raid shelters that remain intact to this day.
Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence expressed his interest in learning more about the region during the team's annual London trip. Despite the focus on the game, Lawrence finds the history of the area intriguing, noting the stark contrast between the age of London and America.
As NFL teams engage with the historical backdrop of their London visits, they not only prepare for their games but also gain insights into the rich heritage of the region, adding a unique dimension to their overseas experience.
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