PLNU Women’s Basketball made a notable impression on the court last season, earning its first NCAA West Regional berth since 2016-17. But the Sea Lions’ biggest impact this past year was off the court during its foreign tour to Costa Rica this past August.
During its time in Central America, the team hosted a basketball clinic and served at a local orphanage.
“The best part was seeing how they were able to interact with each other and with the children at both our orphanage visit and basketball clinic,” Associate Head Coach Grace Ricafranca said. “The gift of love and play is a language understood through all communities, and we are grateful we got to share that with the people in Costa Rica.”
PLNU hosted its clinic at Blue Valley School, where the Sea Lions were able to pass on more than just their basketball knowledge.
“The minute we got there, the kids ran out of the gym, just came sprinting over to us and embraced us,” junior forward Maddie Mersch said. “They immediately started chatting with us, and you could just see everyone’s faces light up with reassurance.
“This is where we were supposed to be; this is what we were supposed to be doing. Every girl was attentive and engaged in our teaching, the camp ran smoothly, and we all had a lot of fun.” The team also visited the orphanage Obras del Espíritu Santo, interacting with and putting smiles on the faces of those they encountered.
“Getting the opportunity to spend time at an orphanage with my teammates over the summer was a deeply rewarding experience,” freshman forward Cassidy Bartolotto said. “I had the chance to connect with the kids and share moments with them that I will never forget.
“The teamwork within PLNU Women’s Basketball grew stronger as we all spent time together with a different community. This experience left me with lasting memories that I will cherish forever.”
While in Costa Rica, Point Loma played in a few exhibition games, going a perfect 3-0 against Costa Rican teams that included members of the national team.
“This Costa Rica trip was an amazing opportunity for our team to build cohesion, serve others and have some fun,” Ricafranca said. “With six new players entering, we felt like it was the perfect chance for our team to get acquainted both on and off the court.”
The squad also embarked on several team-building exercises such as ziplining and whitewater river rafting on the Sarapiqui River.
“White water rafting in Costa Rica was an unparalleled experience that truly pushed me beyond my comfort zone,” junior guard Kaylee Byon said. “It served as an incredible opportunity for team bonding, filled with moments of exhilaration and camaraderie.”
Junior center Eiley Tippins added: “The experience we had ziplining in Costa Rica was so fun. While getting the opportunity to experience all kinds of activities off the court, we continuously found ways to encourage one another and strengthen our team bond.”
Those experiences are bound to pay off for Point Loma this upcoming season, which began on Nov. 8-9 at the PacWest/CCAA Conference Challenge in Azusa.
