NORFOLK, Va. - The Norfolk State volleyball team has returned from a five-day trip to Costa Rica where the team visited Jacó, San José, and Ecazú. The Spartans faced international competition and participated in team-building activities focused on establishing a culture within the program.

The Spartans are the first women’s program in Norfolk State’s history to play internationally. They totaled three matches from July 6-11, posting a 3-0 record for an impeccable start to the 2024 campaign. 

The Spartans return to competition with an exhibition against Virginia Commonwealth University on Saturday, Aug. 24.

The Spartans experienced the vibrant culture of Costa Rica throughout the trip.

Between zip lining in Jacó and visiting the waterfalls in San José, the Spartans explored the Costa Rican land and the many sights it offers.

The Spartans hosted a volleyball clinic where they promoted diversity within the game of volleyball by creating learning opportunities that contribute to building a strong foundation.

Norfolk State head coach Kathy Bullock thanked the program’s many supporters for their contributions preceding the experience. 

“We want to give a special thank you to Dr. J, AD Webb, The NSU Athletics Foundation, the NSU Chesapeake Foundation, Gethsemane Baptist Church, the NSU Athletics Alumni Foundation, God’s Property Church and all of the friends inside and outside the Norfolk State volleyball family for your support and sponsorship for this trip,” Bullock said. “This has been a life changing experience. Behold the Green and Gold!”

Norfolk State enters the 2024 fall season looking to build off a tremendous 2023 campaign. Outside hitter Gabrielle Gilbert became the first Spartan volleyball player to earn the MEAC Rookie of the Year award, as well as the only All-MEAC First Team selection in program history. 

The 2024 regular season will begin on Aug. 30 as the Spartans will host Gardner-Webb University, Lamar University, and Miami (OH) University in the Norfolk State Tournament in Norfolk, Va.