The Stockton University women's volleyball and women’s soccer teams each embarked on an incredible trip to Costa Rica this summer. The idea and purpose of the trips were to give the teams an opportunity to compete internationally while fostering team bonding and cultural immersion.

“I always say that with my sports programs, and all the women's sports programs here, we're trying to build strong women leaders,” said women’s volleyball coach Allison Walker.

Walker and the volleyball team traveled from May 12 to 17. The trip was funded by a $15,000 grant, combined with 14 months of team fundraising initiatives.

“The grant was crucial in allowing us to take this trip and engage in team bonding,” Walker said.

The soccer team, led by head coach Nick Juengert, traveled from Aug. 5 to 14 and funded its trip through team-driven goal fundraising.

“It’s truly an honor to go on this trip without having to worry about paying for our food, airfare or hotels. It’s such a privilege. And beyond that, it’s an honor to travel to a different country and represent Stockton,” said volleyball player Camille De La Torre, an Elementary Education major from Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

One of the most memorable aspects of the trip was the teams’ community service activities at an underprivileged school. Despite language barriers, the players engaged with local children by playing games, reading books and sharing Stockton shirts. The heartfelt keychains and autograph requests from Nicaraguan and Costa Rican children touched the players.

“They were just so happy that we were there. They’d come up and hug you, then go to someone else and try to have a full conversation, even if you didn’t know Spanish,” said soccer player Erica Dietz, a Health Science major from Allentown, Pennsylvania.

The joy and gratitude from the children left a lasting impact on the team. Their tour guide also played a significant role, assisting the players in sharing wisdom and offering insights that exposed the team to global perspectives.

“It made me realize how grateful I am for my teammates and everything I’ve experienced in life. Our translator and guide had never been to the U.S. because of how difficult it is to visit,” said soccer player Sophia Drea, a Psychology major from Medford.

The trip included matches against local Costa Rican teams, giving the players a unique perspective on international competition. Soccer is a major sport in Costa Rica, and the team had the opportunity to play against highly competitive players, winning one match. The volleyball team competed against professional volleyball players in a gym that was very different from their own, including one with low ceilings. The experience was eye-opening for the players, as it highlighted the differences in resources between countries.

The players also enjoyed activities outside of their games and community service. They traveled to a beach resort, where they relaxed by the ocean and spent quality time bonding with their teammates.

“You learn a lot more about someone on a deeper level when you're traveling together and spending every second of every day with them. Doing all the team bonding activities brings out sides of people you wouldn’t expect,” said volleyball player Megan Sears, a Health Science major from Oakland.

For many players, the trip was their first time flying, leaving the country, or traveling at all. The diverse settings and long bus rides allowed the team to connect on a deeper level, and the experience had a profound effect on their perspectives, both personally and professionally. Many expressed a renewed sense of gratitude for their opportunities and a desire to explore different cultures and engage in more community service.

“When we were in the city, we saw some tough areas, and it made me think of my own life. I grew up playing soccer, and those kids didn’t have the same opportunities I did,” said soccer player Emily Hauck, a Health Science major from Lebanon, Pennsylvania.

-- Story by Courtney Combs