The Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU) women’s basketball team recently took their commitment to community service beyond the court and across borders. During a memorable trip to Costa Rica, the team not only bonded as athletes but also immersed themselves in impactful service projects that reflected their dedication to making a positive difference.
While the trip was an opportunity to sharpen their basketball skills in an international setting, the true highlight was the chance to engage with local communities through meaningful service. The team partnered with several community organizations to contribute to various projects, including spending time with children in underserved areas and working on construction projects. These efforts allowed the players to connect with the Costa Rican people in a way that transcended the sport.
Head coach Charity Elliott emphasized the importance of using the platform of sports to give back, explaining that this trip was as much about growing as individuals as it was about improving their game. “This experience was life-changing for our athletes,” Elliott shared. “It was an opportunity to see the world through a different lens, step outside their comfort zones, and recognize the importance of serving others.”
The trip to Costa Rica is just one example of the PLNU women’s basketball team’s broader commitment to community service. Whether at home in San Diego or abroad, the team consistently strives to leave a lasting impact, demonstrating that their role as student-athletes extends far beyond the court.
As they return to the season ahead, the players carry with them valuable lessons of teamwork, leadership, and empathy learned through their community service work in Costa Rica. Their dedication to both basketball and giving back serves as an inspiring reminder of how athletics can be a powerful vehicle for positive change in communities across the globe.
Learn more about their Costa Rica adventure here: San Diego Union-Tribune article.
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