Brussels, Belgium – Ten young Latvian floorball players recently had a unique opportunity to experience the heart of European governance, thanks to an invitation from Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Rihards Kols of the National Alliance. The group traveled to Brussels in late February to learn firsthand about the workings of the European Parliament.
The trip was open to floorball players in secondary school with a grade point average of 8 or higher from the previous academic year. Seventeen young athletes met the initial criteria, but with limited spaces available, the final group consisted of 10 players, selected from those with an average grade of 8.62 or above.
The journey began on February 26th at Riga Airport, where the floorball players joined participants from an essay competition for the trip to Frankfurt. Their travel plans experienced an unexpected delay in Frankfurt when the initial flight was grounded due to a bird strike. A thorough technical inspection was required, causing a significant setback to their schedule.
Upon arrival in Brussels, the young athletes visited the European Parliament and then explored the “Parlamentarium,” a museum dedicated to the history and decision-making processes of the European Parliament. The afternoon allowed for individual exploration of the city; some chose to navigate the public transportation system, while others visited the Atomium and the Design Museum, and still others strolled through the traditional town. Floorball player Krišjānis demonstrated his fitness by logging over 40,000 steps while exploring the city, eager to experience as much of Brussels as possible.
The following day brought a return visit to the Parliament, this time for a meeting with Indra Gafarova, an employee of the European Parliament, and a discussion with Rihards Kols himself. The conversation covered the work of the European Union, key decision-making processes, and the role of its institutions. The young floorball players actively participated, posing questions, presenting arguments, and sharing their perspectives.
The return journey also presented some unexpected challenges. In Frankfurt, the group’s flight was briefly delayed after returning to the gate when two passengers with the same name and surname were found to be assigned the same seat, with no other seats available. After a document check, the issue was resolved, and the group safely arrived home, albeit late at night.
This trip was more than just a journey for the young floorball players; it was an experience designed to broaden their horizons, strengthen their sense of responsibility, and demonstrate that hard work in both sports and academics can open doors beyond the floorball arena.
Rihards Kols currently serves as a Member of the European Parliament representing the National Alliance, and is a member of the European Conservatives and Reformists Group. He is actively involved in the Committees on Foreign Affairs (AFET), International Trade (INTA), and Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE), according to his official website. Rihards Kols’ website provides further information about his work in the European Parliament.
The European Parliament’s website confirms Kols’s committee assignments and provides contact information. His profile on the European Parliament website details his activities, including his recent opinion on the multiannual financial framework for 2028-2034, submitted on March 4, 2026.
This educational visit highlights the importance of civic engagement and provides young athletes with a valuable understanding of the European Union’s role in shaping policy and fostering international cooperation. It’s a reminder that success extends beyond athletic achievement and encompasses a broader understanding of the world around us.
The Latvian floorball federation has not yet announced any upcoming events directly related to this trip, but continues to promote the sport throughout Latvia. Fans can follow the Latvian Floorball Association for updates on league play and national team activities.
