Absolute Volleyball Academy’s 18 Rox and 18 Attack teams took joined forces for an international trip to Costa Rica with Bring It Promotions on March 12th – 17th, 2019. They got to experience the very best that Costa Rica has to offer including volunteering, volleyball matches, visiting the rainforest, hiking to waterfalls, swimming in local natural hot springs, hosting youth volleyball clinics and playing more matches. Here’s a few trip highlights in the words of the players and coaches themselves:
“We took a trip to the Talita Cumi Association, the school was very welcoming and had so much love to give. we learned about what they do to educate and make a living in their lives. We created such a great bond and it was very hard to say goodbye. As the day came to an end we took a big dub winning both sets against the falcons 18 team.” -Destiny Tom and Gabby Hall 18 Rox
“Day 2 in Costa Rica! We started off the trip with a Delicious early morning breakfast and then set off towards Talita Cumi school for the disabled. We were greeted with a warm welcome from their band and then a brief introduction from the staff and volunteers. Shortly after we watched an informative video about the stereotypes disabled people go through and through that we learned how the adults of the school felt and wanted to be treated. We then were treated with some fresh coffee and then we started our tour. Beginning with the plants and understanding the process of how they are grown and looked after. We then went to the butterfly exhibit and learned about their life cycle and habits. Last was recycling and I enjoyed this process because of how impactful and important it was! Before we left we had a great dance session and were welcomed to a meal that we all ate together. Overall I can say that Day 2 was a blast and my team and I are excited to see what tomorrow entails.” – Shae 18 Attack
“Day three was very adventurous; we traveled from San Jose to La Fortuna. We planted trees in an endangered forest and learned how to make chocolate from cocao beans! We also got to hang out in a river in the rainforest, and taste different plants, seasonings, and fruits! We are so excited for zip lining and waterfall hiking tomorrow!” -Allie and Sharanda 18 Rox
“Day 4 Today was really fun! We drove to the La Fortuna waterfall, and hiked up the steep trails of the rainforest. The water was really cold, but a great place for photos. We also swam in some hot springs. The zip lining at La Fortuna was thrilling and beautiful. We are so thankful we got to experience this beautiful country.” – Kiala and Kaleigh 18 Attack
“Day 5 Today we hosted a youth volleyball clinic, played volleyball matches and ate food at a local market. Hosting the youth volleyball clinic was my favorite part of the week. I loved trying to communicate with the kids and learn along the way. When we played against them it was an amazing experience. Seeing how they worked together and the bond they had was simply awesome. Dinner was sooo good but the company was even better. We got to sit with are coach and share our memory’s of our childhoods. Costa Rica will always be something I look back on. Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to come!” – Isla Dietert 18 Attack.
*Originally posted on AVA Rox