Now the volcanic ash has settled and the true story of Charlotte's kindness has been unveiled, readingfc.co.uk thought it necessary to dedicate today's stories to our Academy side's trip to North Carolina.
The Royals' first year scholars flew out to America late in April to take part in an international tournament hosted by one of our partner clubs, Charlotte United, but soon learned they weren't likely to get back to the UK until 3rd May.
Having led a number of coaching clinics set up by their hosts, the trophy-lifting under-18s fast found themselves stranded in America as UK airspace remained closed.
Feeling understandably vulnerable and worried, the party - which included our under-18s squad and coaching staff, Community Trust Manager Lee Herron and strike star Noel Hunt - were warmly taken in by the local community out there.
"Phenomenal!" Herron summed up in an interview with Reading Player. "I've never experienced anything like it.
"I've been over to America a number of times, working with different clubs in different areas, but the hospitality we were shown in Charlotte was totally unbelievable and a real eye-opener.
"One week turned into three weeks, but thanks to the people of Charlotte, we turned a negative situation into a real positive. Something I and those on the tour won't forget."
The party were put up in a six-star hotel free of charge, fed and watered throughout by the generosity of local people and businesses, invited to major baseball, basketball, american football and golf events and followed by six different news networks as word of their extended stay spread.
In addition, Charlotte allowed our side continued use of their training facilities - something Royals striker Noel Hunt was very grateful for...
"It was a fantastic break for me," Hunt explained. "I had physios and sports scientists out there and I got everything done that I needed to get done out there.
"And I loved every minute of it. The facilities were unbelievable. Charlotte aren't professional in terms of a men's senior team, but everything they do is extremely professional.
"What they've made for themselves over there is amazing. And from my perspective, they were amazing to me. I had the freedom to use whatever I wanted in my training schedule and I can't thank them enough."
In the exclusive Reading Player interview, you can learn more about how Noel managed to continue his rehabilitation out in the US, how the relationship with Charlotte United benefits clubs on both sides of the pond - and all the gossip on whether Noel Hunt has a future as a baseball pitcher.
And also on the official website today we also have two in-depth photo galleries from the eventful trip, an interview with Charlotte United's Business Director Neil Orridge and an Academy update from Eamonn Dolan.
"It's about building on that relationship and seeing what we can do for them now," Herron added. "They'll hopefully be sending a delegation over in August and we will welcome them with open arms."
