Connecting Communities In Costa Rica
GLG returned to Costa Rica for our annual international service trip! For one week at the beginning of August, sixteen of our players, led by two coaches, explored Costa Rica’s culture and connected with the local soccer community.
Participants got to scrimmage with local club FC Robles Jr’s, had a training session with Costa Rica National Team player Daniela Cruz, and performed service activities. Our girls also got to adventure with ziplining, surfing, and a San Jose city tour with stops including Central Market, Central Avenue, the National Church, the National Theater, and the Artisans Market.
Our international service trips give participants the opportunity to connect with a community that may be different from their own — but everyone’s experience will look a little different. Check out what coach Michelle and former player and new coach Brianna enjoyed, learned, and took away from their time in Costa Rica.
What was your favorite part of the trip?
Michelle - Ziplining! It felt extremely freeing to fly through the jungle, and they even had us hang upside down on one of the lines. The weather added to the tropical experience. It was pouring warm rain and everyone was drenched.
Brianna - Being able to play soccer with the community out there in Garabito and Jaco. They welcomed us with open arms and appreciated us so much for just playing with them. They made us feel like we were at home. We bonded so well and made each other laugh so much.
I also enjoyed the many activities we did as a group such as ziplining and surfing because we truly bonded as one big group. We encouraged each other to try new things and get out of our comfort zone.
What did you learn about yourself during the trip?
Michelle - I learned I’m grateful for structure, though somewhat jealous of their relaxed lifestyle.
Brianna - What I learned about myself during this trip was to be proud of who I am and where I come from. Embracing my Mexican roots and the Spanish language I was taught from a very young age. Being able to interact with the other players and the community with the language that connects us.
What did you learn about Costa Rica?
Brianna - What I learned about Costa Rica was that this country is like a canvas that has many colors. Those colors are represented by each different culture that lives there. Each one has established their place there and has made the country more diverse.
We also learned the meaning of “Pura Vida” which directly translates to “Pure Life” or “Simple Life.” It is used as a greeting and a response to the greeting. But it also represents that everything is okay and living life to the fullest.
What was a challenge you overcame during the trip?
Michelle - Being away from home. Growing up, I struggled with homesickness and always needed familiarity around me. Aside from Costa Rica being physically far, it felt very different, and I’m proud to have gotten through the trip without any major illnesses relating to home.
Brianna - I overcame my fear of speaking Spanish. I was nervous that I wasn't going to be able to communicate well with the community and the people there. That I would stumble my words and forget every word. When we arrived, the people made me feel so comfortable, and they allowed me to take my time speaking. I was never judged or looked at differently.
What was your overall experience like during the trip?
Michelle - My overall experience of the trip was refreshing. It was great to see new foods, new sights, sounds, and everything you wouldn’t normally encounter in the United States.
Brianna - This trip was a very beautiful and humbling experience. Never in a million years would I have thought I would have this opportunity to go on a trip to Costa Rica to play the sport I love.
Every time I think of the trip, I just remember the many sceneries we saw, the rainforests we stayed in and ziplined in, and the exotic wildlife we saw. As well as the people we met there. They were always so kind and told us about their culture. Explaining to us the many traditional foods they eat, traditional celebrations they do, and many forms of art they have.
Would you travel to another country in the future?
Michelle - Yes! This is only my second international trip. I’d love to carve time out of my schedule to explore other cultures with individuals or groups I love.
Brianna - Yes, of course. My goal in life is to be able to travel the world. Explore and learn about other countries and their culture. I would love to continue to travel with Girls Leading Girls and play/coach soccer in other countries.
Was playing soccer/fútbol different than what you’re used to in the States?
Michelle - Yes, the players in Costa Rica play with a lot of personality and heart. They capitalize on their creativity.
Brianna - The soccer they played mostly was pick-up soccer. We played in smaller fields which made the game a lot faster. Having to be on our feet, ready to sprint to help the forwards, and ready to defend. Although there was a language barrier we were able to communicate with the sport we love.
Did you make any new friends?
Michelle - I got a lot closer with the players who attended and Coach CP who I roomed with for the whole trip!
Brianna - I did make new friends out there! I made a lot of new friends with the younger players that we met when we played pick-up soccer. Especially in Garabito, as soon as we got off the bus we were instantly greeted by their high-spirited, fun energy. We matched their energy, which is what they wanted, played soccer, laughed, and kept spraying our waters on each other.
What advice would you give to someone traveling to Costa Rice for the first time?
Michelle - Don’t pack pants — pack mosquito repellant. I packed pants thinking I’d want to wear them at some point but nope! The humidity will push you to shorts nearly all the time, and pants will be that one thing you packed that you realize you shouldn’t have. Wear shorts and spray on repellent to keep your skin safe.
Brianna - Embrace the culture. Have an open mind and heart. Allow yourself to get to know the country and its people. This country is full of so much life and beauty from its nature. Soak it all in and relax, and always stay present in the moment.
Sound like the opportunity your girl needs? Stay tuned — in 2023, we’re headed to New Zealand for the Women’s World Cup! Subscribe to our email list or follow us on social media to be the first to know when registration opens.