The Abilene Christian women's basketball team made its way to Athens, Greece, on Aug. 4, 2026, launching a two-week international trip packed with competition, cultural experiences, and service projects. Immediately after landing, the team started their adventure with a memorable dinner beneath the shadow of the Acropolis, enjoying a local meal and views of the city under a colorful sunset. Senior guard Erin Woodson's 22nd birthday was also celebrated at the restaurant with a cake, making the evening even more special.
The group's exploration of Athens continued the next day with a guided bike tour through the city, which included stops at the Panathenaic Stadium, Ancient Agora of Athens, and the Presidential Mansion. The tour offered a unique perspective on Greece's history and heritage while allowing the team to see the Acropolis from a new vantage point. Senior forward Meredith Mayes described the experience as 'really cool' and said the ruins were her favorite part so far. The team learned about the city's past, and the activity gave them a chance to bond and connect in a fun, active way.
Beyond the bike tour, the Wildcats took the afternoon to immerse themselves in local life. They visited shops, dined at local eateries, and even participated in a cooking class at Eat With Your Greek Cousin, where they tried their hands at making traditional Greek dishes. The class gave them a new appreciation for the local cuisine, and the experience offered hands-on learning and interaction with locals.
Team bonding in a new language
Redshirt senior guard Natalia Chavez highlighted how the trip has helped the team come together in ways that might not happen at home. She said the shared experience of navigating a new country, learning about a different culture, and communicating in a foreign language has been a bonding experience. She added that trying local food, exploring the city, and stepping outside their comfort zones has made the team stronger together.
Chavez emphasized how the shared challenges and fun have brought the team closer, creating a sense of unity that will carry into their season. … Just getting closer with the people that we've always been with,' she said. The experience of learning and growing together in an unfamiliar place has helped the players build trust and camaraderie, essential for a competitive season.
Coach sees long-term impact
Head coach Julie Goodenough believes the benefits of the trip will go far beyond the coming season. She cited past international tours that led to strong team chemistry and success in the following basketball season. She believes the intense time together in a new setting has helped the team grow into a tighter unit.
Goodenough pointed out how the team is now interacting more freely, with players dining together and mingling without forming cliques. 'They have to sit together at the dinner table. They mingle all pretty well,' she said. She emphasized that these strong relationships will help the team persevere through challenging moments in the future, and that the shared experience will be remembered for years to come. 'I just think it makes us a tougher, grittier group of people, just to have this awesome experience,' Goodenough said.
Looking ahead, the Wildcats are scheduled to play a pair of exhibition games in Greece, facing Athens Select on Aug. 6, 2026, and Melissia Select 2 the following day. The team will then travel to Rwanda for service work with Rwanda Children, a faith-based nonprofit founded by ACU alum Serge Gasore ('09). This part of the trip will give the team the opportunity to give back to the local community while deepening their cultural experience.
Fans who want to follow along with the team's journey can do so through ACUSports.com and by following the program on social media at @ACUWBB and @ACUSports. Updates, photos, and highlights from the trip will be posted regularly. Those who wish to support the women's basketball program can also contribute to the excellence fund to help fund future international and developmental opportunities.
The two-week trip, which runs from Aug. 4-16, is a combination of competition, cultural immersion, and service. The Abilene Christian women's basketball team is using this experience to grow as individuals and as a team, and the lessons learned will carry into their future on and off the court.
Fans can also find out more about the upcoming Women's Basketball game against UT Arlington on Jan. This international tour is just one of many ways the program is fostering strong relationships, building character, and preparing for a successful season.