The New England Patriots and Jacksonville Jaguars are gearing up for their game at Wembley Stadium in London, but before the big match, they are taking advantage of the opportunity to practice at historically significant locations. The Patriots will be training at Harrow School, where former student Winston Churchill once walked the grounds. Churchill, known for his leadership during World War II, spent his high school years at Harrow and even recited 1,200 lines from a poem at the Speech Room. The school’s director mentioned that the players should take a moment to appreciate the grandeur of the school while they are there.
On the other hand, the Jaguars are using a practice field that sits atop World War II air raid shelters at the Grove estate in Watford. The estate was purchased by the Midland & Scottish Railway during the war to avoid German bombing, and the air raid shelters are still intact today. Interestingly, explorers have posted videos online showcasing the shelters, despite some blocked entrances. The Grove luxury hotel, where the Jaguars stay, opened in 2003 and provides a unique connection to the region’s history.
Quarterback Trevor Lawrence expressed his interest in learning more about the region and its history during the team’s annual trip to London. Although their focus is primarily on the game, Lawrence finds it intriguing to discover the rich historical background of the area. He noted that London’s history dates back much further than that of America, and he enjoys picking up interesting facts about the region as he goes.
The connections between the NFL teams and the historical sites in London add an extra layer of significance to their visit. From practicing at a school where Churchill once studied to training on top of air raid shelters from World War II, the players have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich history of the region. As they prepare for their game at Wembley Stadium, they are not only focusing on their athletic performance but also taking in the unique cultural and historical experiences that London has to offer.
