Grand Rapids Reporter

The Ferris State University women's volleyball team is preparing for an overseas trip to Spain and Portugal this May as part of their training for the 2024 season. The Bulldogs, who have reached the NCAA Division II Sweet Sixteen for three consecutive years, will depart on May 5 for a 10-day journey that includes both competitive matches and cultural experiences.

FSU head coach Tia Brandel-Wilhelm expressed enthusiasm about the trip's potential benefits: "The chance to spend 10 days in another country with our team is fantastic in terms of the team building that will come out of it. The opportunity to play other teams and face another style of play will be a challenge, but the personal growth and leadership that will come out of it is exciting."

To fund this venture, the team is raising money to cover expenses such as airfare, accommodations, meals, and local travel. Supporters who contribute over $1,000 through Gamechanger will receive personalized updates from the team during their travels.

FSU junior outside hitter Tatum Outlaw shared her excitement: "Overall, we're just really excited for the experience and the opportunity to experience new things. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and we're working hard to educate ourselves on the language and the culture before we go."

Junior middle hitter Syann Fairfield also looks forward to exploring new cultures: "I'm really excited to travel with the team, get to see new things and play volleyball in other countries. I'm excited for the food and spending so much time in Portugal and Spain while getting to experience cool things."

Ferris State concluded their last season with a record of 27-8, securing their place in the NCAA Division II Sweet Sixteen for a third year running. They also won the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Tournament Championship. Most of FSU's roster is expected to return for next season.

Junior outside hitter Hannah Tecumseh commented on how this trip could impact their upcoming season: "This trip will give us the chance to face a higher level of competition in Europe and going overseas will help us grow as a team going into the season. I haven't been outside of the United States, so getting to do it with people I love so much, my teammates and coaches, is so special."

Donations can be made online via FSU's fundraising platform.