Centenary University’s softball team traveled to Costa Rica recently on a service trip that included leading a softball clinic and exploring the Central American nation.

Led by head softball coach and assistant athletic director, Kim Broking, the eight-day trip was aimed at expanding the world view of players while providing service to others and spreading Cyclone pride.

Prior to its departure, the team collected softball equipment, including helmets, bats, gloves, cleats, bases, and balls to distribute in Costa Rica. The softball clinic introduced their sport to children in San Jose, the nation’s capital. After the clinic, the group headed to Rincon de la Vieja National Park to visit La Oropendola waterfall, go water tubing, and enjoy the area’s hot springs. The Cyclones also had the opportunity to go zip lining over the canopy of the rainforest and explore the area’s many natural and cultural offerings.

“We were excited to bring a new sport to a group of young children and see the joy and sense of pride they had as they started to succeed,” Broking said. “The team also got to experience the culture, food, and hospitality of Costa Rica. “This trip was, by far, the most rewarding experience we have had as a program.”

Centenary University, in Hackettstown, was founded in 1867. It offers a host of opportunities for students to gain international experiences through traditional semester-abroad programs, as well as shorter travel courses and service trips.