Grace College coaches Heather Johnson (left) and Andria Harshman are taking their softball and volleyball teams on mission trips (Photo provided by Grace College Sports Information Department)

WINONA LAKE, Ind. – Grace’s softball and volleyball teams are set to embark on international mission trips to close out their summer breaks.

The volleyball team leaves for Costa Rica from July 31-Aug. 7 while the softball team will travel to the Dominican Republic from Aug. 1-9. Both trips are organized by SCORE International.

The volleyball team’s trip to Costa Rica will include games, clinics and service throughout their eight-day journey.

The Lady Lancers will compete against five local teams and put on volleyball clinics for children. In addition, the volleyball team will spend time at a Costa Rican orphanage and bring food to donate to a single mothers’ ministry center.

Head coach Andria Harshman has planned for several team-building experiences, including group devotionals each night, water rafting and shopping.

Grace’s softball team, under the leadership of head coach Heather Johnson and assistant coach Genevieve Benson, will experience international softball when they take on four local squads for friendly exhibitions.

The Lady Lancers will play and minister to the Dominican Republican children throughout their trip, stopping at an orphanage and a home for girls. The players and coaches brought numerous bags filled with things to give away, including school supplies, books, toys, clothes, gloves and softballs.

The softball squad will challenge each other with team devotionals as well.

Both teams have set up blogs for family and fans to follow each trip. For the softball team’s trip to the Dominican Republic, click here. For volleyball’s blog covering their Costa Rican adventure, click here.