This summer, the Catawba Beach Volleyball team embarked on an unforgettable journey to Brazil. Departing from Miami International Airport on the morning of July 16, the team arrived in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil, later that evening at 6:00 p.m.
The adventure began right away. On Tuesday morning, the team participated in its first training session at a renowned training center that has long been a home to some of the biggest names in beach volleyball. Athletes such as Larissa França, Juliana Felisberta and most recently it has been the training ground of Duda and Patricia, the current Olympic gold medalist from the Paris 2024 Games.

That afternoon, training was followed by a conditioning session on the sand dunes, an experience that tested endurance while offering breathtaking views of the beaches and natural beauty of Northeast Brazil. The day concluded with one of Fortaleza's most famous traditions: Thursday Crab Night. With tables set directly on the sand, just steps from the ocean, the team joined locals and visitors alike in enjoying fresh crab—eaten by hand in true Brazilian style.

On Friday, July 18, the team began the day with thrilling buggy rides along the coastline and over the dunes. This excursion not only brought excitement and adventure but also offered unique views of the region's Aeolic energy sources, the primary supplier of electricity in Northeast Brazil. Afterward, the group enjoyed lunch at a traditional restaurant serving authentic Northeastern cuisine, a cultural experience in itself. The day came full circle with an evening training session.

On Saturday, July 19, game day, the team started with a morning visit to Fortaleza's Central Market (Mercado Central), one of the city's cultural landmarks. With four floors of vendors, the market is a hub for local crafts, lace, leather goods, traditional hammocks, and regional food products. It offered the group an authentic glimpse into the artistry and heritage of Northeast Brazil. Lunch followed at Orgânico, a restaurant known for its healthy and regional offerings, before heading into the afternoon competition. The team faced CTG in a friendly match that proved to be both competitive and rewarding, with participation from many local Brazilian teams adding to the lively atmosphere. The successful day concluded with dinner at Seu Feijão, a local favorite that provided the perfect setting to celebrate both volleyball and cultural exchange.

On Sunday, July 20, the team began the morning with a scenic bike ride along the Beira Mar, Fortaleza's iconic seaside avenue. Stretching for several miles along the Atlantic coast, Beira Mar combines modern high-rises with deep cultural history and is a gathering place for locals who enjoy walking, biking, shopping, and dining along the waterfront. The ride lasted about an hour, giving the team a chance to experience both the beauty and energy of the city. Afterward, they refueled with fresh açaí, a staple of Brazilian cuisine and an essential post-workout meal. The day concluded with dinner at Coco Bambu, one of Brazil's most celebrated restaurants, known for its seafood dishes and festive atmosphere that perfectly reflects Brazilian culinary culture.

On Monday, July 21, the team trained at UNIFOR (Universidade de Fortaleza), one of the largest and most prestigious universities in South America. UNIFOR is not only a hub for academics and athletics but also a leader in sustainability and environmental innovation. After a productive morning on the courts, the group enjoyed lunch at Cantinho do Frango, a local favorite specializing in traditional roasted chicken dishes.

In the afternoon, the team participated in a guided tour of UNIFOR's campus, which included visits to its impressive art gallery and an introduction to the university's wide-ranging environmental projects. From energy-saving initiatives to the development of renewable energy sources, the tour highlighted how the institution is shaping a more sustainable future.

The day concluded with a team adventure back on the Beira Mar, this time in the form of a Hawaiian canoe ride. With nearly 20 people paddling together, the group spent an unforgettable hour on the water, watching the sun set over the Atlantic. The sense of teamwork and shared experience made it a highlight of the trip. Dinner followed at Pasto e  Pizza, a lively and welcoming restaurant that brought the day to a close with good food and camaraderie.

On Tuesday, July 22, the team started the morning with surf lessons at Praia do Futuro, one of Fortaleza's most famous beaches. Guided by experienced surf instructors, the group had the opportunity to try a new sport and challenge themselves in the Atlantic waves. It was both a fun and memorable experience, offering a different perspective on Brazil's vibrant beach culture.

After a quick break at the hotel, the afternoon was dedicated to the team's second match of the trip, this time against Unifor. The matches were highly competitive, and the team was pleased with both their performance and the opportunity to play against strong Brazilian opponents. The day concluded with dinner at Tropicucos, a restaurant that offered yet another taste of regional flavors, rounding out a day full of sport, culture, and camaraderie.

On Wednesday, July 23, the team had the opportunity to visit SESporte at Castelão Stadium, one of Fortaleza's most important sporting venues. Here, they were welcomed by members of the Secretary of Sport, who played a vital role in supporting and organizing the trip. The team toured the stadium, stepping onto the field where Brazil's main soccer teams play—a rare and exciting experience for any athlete.

Lunch was enjoyed at a restaurant overlooking the stadium, providing a unique setting that combined Brazilian cuisine with a direct view of the country's most beloved sport. In the afternoon, the group visited the Olympic Training Center, located within the stadium complex, and participated in a training session that further connected them to Brazil's elite sports environment.

The day concluded in a truly special way, with a home-cooked meal hosted by the coaches. The warm, family-style dinner offered not only delicious food but also a chance to share stories and strengthen the bonds created throughout the trip.

On Thursday, July 24, the team returned to the Olympic Training Center to participate in a unique mixed-team tournament. Student-athletes from Catawba were paired with Brazilian players, creating teams composed of individuals from different nations. Despite language differences, it was remarkable to observe how the athletes communicated and collaborated on the court, relying on teamwork, gestures, and shared strategy. The experience was both challenging and highly rewarding, providing insight into cross-cultural athletic interaction. The day was filled with fun, camaraderie, and a sense of unity, leaving lasting memories of being all together in the same place to celebrate volleyball at its highest levels.

On Friday, July 25, the team visited Beach Park, one of the largest water parks in Latin America, known for its thrilling rides, wave pools, and tropical setting along the coast of Ceará. It was a fun and relaxing day where the team could enjoy the sun, the water, and a variety of adrenaline-filled attractions, celebrating the conclusion of an intense and rewarding week. That evening, the trip concluded with a special dinner at home, where the team thanked everyone who had contributed to the success of the journey.

The group departed Brazil on Saturday, July 26, returning to the United States with memories that will last a lifetime. The trip not only strengthened skills, teamwork, and camaraderie among the Catawba Beach Volleyball players but also added tremendous value to their understanding of the sport, exposure to international competition, and appreciation for global athletic culture.


HEAR FROM THE STUDENT-ATHLETES (& COACH SUZ)

Brooklyn Calkins (Junior) : "My time in Brazil taught me so much—about culture, connection, and the power of communication on and off the court."
Christina Knotts (graduated): "Surfing at Praia do Futuro was a challenge but trying something new together as a team made it a memory I'll treasure forever."
Lauren Bodell (senior): "During my time in Brazil, I enjoyed meeting so many new people. Playing with and against girls who didn't speak the same language as me was so hard, but so much fun. I enjoyed the music and the food and am so thankful for the opportunity I had to be immersed in the culture of Brazil."
Katie Willingham (Alumni) says: "I feel beyond blessed for the opportunity to travel to Brazil and represent Catawba Beach Volleyball one last time. Coach Suz and Coach Oliver brought their game to us and then brought us to their home. The people were so welcoming and it was a trip full of first-time experiences for me that I will never forget."
Head Coach Suzana Andrade: "I am pleased with this experience; I want to thank all of our supporters. Watching our athletes adapt and communicate with international players was incredible. This trip went beyond skill development; it was about cultural exchange and growing as a team."