This summer, Europe defines what it means to be a world-class athlete. Sports enthusiasts and casual viewers all over the world will get the chance to watch olympiads compete at the summer Olympic games in London. And Poland and Ukraine will co-host the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) European Championship,.

London will host this year’s Olympic Games, running from July 27 to August 12. This year the United States has developed a team that many expect will perform well due to the reappearance of Michael Phelps on the Olympic stage. Michael Phelps will compete in swimming once more, exuding high expectations with his current possession of 7 gold medals, an Olympic record. The USbasketball team is expected to succeed due to the high level of talent involved on the team including Miami Heat’s LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh.

“I’m really looking forward to this year’s Olympic Games,” junior Jordan Rodgers said. “I can’t wait for when I will be able to stand up in front of the television and post on Facebook that we are the best in the world.”

Also coming earlier this summer is Euro 2012. This year, Spain was an early favorite because of its recent win of the 2010 World Cup and its status as the returning champion from Euro 2008. Some of the superstars that are poised to compete this year include Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo and Spain’s goalkeeper, Iker Casillas. The winner of this tournament will qualify for the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup, a tournament between the champions of the current FIFA Confederation Zones.

“This year is going to be so exciting,” sophomore Jonah Brand said. “My favorite player is Cristiano Ronaldo and therefore I believe that Portugal can give Spain a run for their money to win the title this year.”