ELON, N.C. – The Elon women's basketball team is preparing for an international and cultural learning and playing experience in Italy from Aug. 14 – 24. Check in with elonphoenix.com every day to read posts from the players on their adventures. Fans can also follow the team on Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat.
 
Twitter: @elonwbasketball
Instagram: @elonbasketball
Snapchat: elonphoenix
 
Saturday, Aug. 13
 
With only a few hours left until we travel to Italy, I have to say I'm so excited that I've yet to pack a single thing into my suitcase. After two months of waking up for 8 a.m. workouts, today was our last full practice before taking an eight-hour flight to Italy.
 
Even as I type these words, its still unreal that I'll be leaving the country for the first time with some of the most driven women I know. I am privileged enough to call them my teammates and friends.
 
Practice this morning was so swift and effective because we all knew that in 24 hours we'd be traveling to not only play the game that we love but also embrace a new culture. Food, laughter and experience all encompass the things that I look forward to.
 
I'm blessed to have my first abroad experience be with people that I love and it's the perfect start to an amazing senior year.
 
By Lenaira Ruffin