When most college athletes come back for preseason training, it involves 6 a.m. workouts followed by intense practices. When the Lee University women’s soccer team has preseason training it includes a beach, sightseeing, ministry and, of course, lots of soccer. The top-ranked Lady Flames started the year with a trip to Brazil. Here, the Lady Flames trained and played against some of Brazil’s toughest teams for scrimmages.

Not only did the Lady Flames play a great deal of soccer, but they also had a chance to immerse themselves in the culture. Though they were unable to reach the most poverty-stricken areas, the girls did have a chance to bring in some kids and play soccer with them, making their coach proud of them for not only athletic endeavors but also individual character.

“I learned more about the character of our team in one week than I usually do in an entire season, and what I found out is that we have a lot of players that are not only great soccer players, they are players who have the right perspective about life and our place in it.” said Coach Yelton.

For some of the Lee University women, it was a chance to go home. Two girls on the team even got to see their home city of Rio De Janero and have the opportunity to catch up on things like going to the dentist.

“We were able to spend a great deal of time interacting with the people of Brazil and were able to share the love that we all have for the game of soccer, and even though there was a language barrier we were able to create some great memories that I know we will treasure for a long time.” said Coach Yelton.

All the players truly had a full experience while in Brazil. They were able to use their talents as a tool to reach people that they would have never met if it wasn’t for the shared love of soccer. Love never fails.