BRADFORD, N.Y. (WENY) - Blai Crespo, a foreign exchange student from Barcelona, Spain has spent the last 7 months in Bradford, NY attending Bradford Central School, and playing basketball for the Braves. However, as the coronavirus continues to spread across the Twin Tiers and the world, Blai's visit in America was cut short by 3 months, and he traveled back home to Barcelona on Saturday.
On Blai's last day in the U.S., his friends and family from Bradford organized a drive-by sendoff as a special and safe way to say goodbye for now.
"It's like a mix of feelings because if I think about it, I'll be seeing my parents tomorrow morning, but at the same time I don't want to leave because I have been so good for 7 months with a family that treats me like a son" said Crespo. It's really amazing to see that they love you and care about you and being able to say goodbye that way, it's amazing."
Blai also brought his talents to the hardwood as he played a major role in the successful basketball season the Braves had. He averaged 12 points, 8 assists, and 6 steals per game, which helped Bradford to a 17-5 record and a 19th ranking in New York State Class D.
"Basketball is the best one" Crespo added talking about his favorite memories. "I have been with a team that was amazing with a great season, maybe not the end that we wanted but we had a great season and I've made so many friends with my teammates. I want to come back soon, the sooner I can and I want to see them again."
WENY's Sports Director, Griffin Haas did a story on Blai during the season back in February, and Blai mentioned that one of the things he will miss most about America is American cheeseburgers, and as the perfect parting gift, a community member ordered one more cheeseburger for Blai before he left.
Click on the attached video to view the full story and interview with Blai.