UNIVERSITY CENTER, Mich. - Four current Saginaw Valley State University softball players traveled to Australia over the past summer to compete for the United States of America Athletes International (USAAI) Team.
Cardinals Marcy Medina, Mackenzie Rousse, Jordan Randall and Amanda Kimes all participated, along with fellow student-athletes from all over the country, in the games that spanned two weeks.
In addition to competing in softball games, the girls got to participate in many other events outside of softball. Those include: sight-seeing, surfing, scuba diving, kayaking and many others that the organization planned for them.
SVSU Head Coach Todd Buckingham was honored to be named the coach of the team. Below are some quotes from each girl on their great experience.
Marcy Medina - "I was humbled to have been invited to take part in USA Athletes International's trip to Australia. Prior to the trip, I never would have thought I'd be capable of creating so many unforgettable memories and everlasting friendships in such a short amount of time. The trip was truly a fulfilling lifetime experience. I enjoyed playing softball in such a beautiful scenery and amongst Australians whom exhibited such great hospitality."
Amanda Kimes - "My trip to Australia was one of a kind and a once in a lifetime adventure! It was the highlight of my summer! It was awesome to join a team with players from all over the United States and play international teams. It was great to be able to tour one of the most beautiful countries in this world. I couldn't ask for a better trip with better people! I would encourage everyone to take advantage of this trip if they ever got the opportunity!"
Jordan Randall - "It was without a doubt, a trip of a lifetime! I'm so thankful to have had the opportunity to travel across the world and play the sport I love most with people I will never forget. Our day trips were awesome and the gaming experience was eventful as well. Us girls from the USA had to pick up on some of the game rules that were different in Australia than we were used to. Overall, it was an unforgettable experience and I'm so happy I got to experience with my teammates, MacKenzie, Marcy and Amanda!"
MacKenzie Rousse - ""
Click here to view photos from the trip
