ELON, N.C. – As part of Elon University's commitment to students achieving a global education, the Elon University baseball team will travel to the Dominican Republic over the Thanksgiving break, Nov. 23-30, for a once-in-a-lifetime learning experience.
 
As part of the Elon commitment to diversity and global engagement for its students, the week-long excursion will include the team touring several Dominican cities and cultural sites, practicing and competing against international competition and taking part in a class called Global Explorations: Baseball in Dominican Republic. In preparation for the journey in the classroom with Assistant Professor of Sport Management Mark Cryan and Dean of Student Development Jodean Schmiederer, the course has challenged students to critically evaluate their own culture and biases and analyze the interconnectedness of global systems at a basic level. During the experience, students will examine fundamental intercultural principles, research specific historical and cultural sites, and explore the Dominican Republic's diverse geography, history, society, and culture. Students will also interact with locals in focused intercultural activities.
 
"We are really excited about our global experience in the Dominican Republic and are very fortunate to be at a university that provides opportunities as such," said Elon head coach Mike Kennedy. "The Dominican Republic and its rich baseball history will provide our student-athletes with a global educational experience that is second-to-none."
 
The team's itinerary will include volunteering at a youth clinic, attending multiple Dominican Winter League baseball games, visits to the Kansas City Royals Academy and the Colonial Zone and Museums, and assisting the community by painting houses at Buscone Academies.
 
Elon will also play two games against local competition with the first against the Escogido Lions, a professional team in Santo Domingo that has won 17 national championship and four Caribbean Series.
 
Coverage of the experience will be featured on elonphoenix.com as well as on the team's social media accounts. Follow the Phoenix on Twitter and Instagram at @ElonBaseball for more updates on Elon's global experience in the Dominican Republic.