University of Northern Colorado Athletics
UNC Volleyball Builds Toward 2026 Season with International Trip to Japan
6/26/2026 9:50:00 AM | Women's Volleyball
GREELEY, Colo. – Building on the momentum of a conference championship season, UNC Volleyball continued its preparation for 2026 with an international trip to Japan, a trip that combined high-level competition, cultural immersion and team-building experiences.
"Our trip to Japan was an incredible opportunity to grow as competitors, teammates and people. The volleyball challenged us, the cultural experiences broadened our perspective, and the memories we created together will greatly help us this fall. Representing UNC internationally is something our student-athletes will carry with them for the rest of their lives. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this unforgettable experience possible. It was a perfect example of what we mean when we say our program is about more than volleyball" stated Head Coach, Lyndsey Oates.
Throughout the 10-day trip, the Bears embraced opportunities both on and off the court, with student-athletes gaining new perspectives through international play, cultural exploration and shared experiences across the country.
One of the highlights came in Osaka, where the team explored the historic Osaka Castle, one of Japan's most iconic landmarks, before sampling local cuisine and street treats. The day continued with a visit to Kansai University, where the Bears observed traditional Japanese activities including archery, martial arts and sumo wrestling, providing a deeper appreciation for the country's rich culture. The experience concluded with international competition as UNC took the court for a four-set match.
"My favorite part of Japan was experiencing a new culture and seeing daily life through a different lens," said senior libero Bella LePore. "Competing against talented volleyball teams taught us lessons we'll carry back to our own gym."
The Bears later traveled from Kyoto to Tokyo, beginning the day with a stop at Nara Park, where team members spent the morning interacting with the park's famous deer. The group then reunited to board Japan's renowned bullet train, experiencing one of the country's most recognizable modes of transportation on their way to Tokyo.
Despite rainy weather upon arrival, the team embraced the opportunity to explore the city together, walking through Tokyo's streets under umbrellas before enjoying a traditional Shabu-Shabu dinner at Momo Paradise. The evening concluded with a visit to the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, where the Bears shopped, explored and experienced one of Tokyo's most vibrant districts.
On June 22, the team traveled to Moriya, Japan, Greeley's sister city. Located approximately an hour outside of Tokyo, Moriya welcomed the Bears for a day of cultural exchange that included visits to City Hall, local elementary and middle schools, and opportunities to interact with students throughout the community.
The Bears spent time teaching volleyball skills to local children, learning about Japanese school life and culture, and sharing experiences with students and community members. The visit also included a traditional Japanese school lunch, providing another unique glimpse into everyday life in Moriya.
As the trip came to a close, the team made the most of their final day in Japan. Before departing for the airport, team members spent time shopping, exploring the city and visiting attractions such as Tokyo DisneySea. The team departed Tokyo on June 24 and traveled back to the United States, landing in Los Angeles before continuing to Denver and eventually returning to Greeley later that evening.
While these moments stood out, they represented only a portion of the team's experience in Japan. From daily training sessions and international competition to cultural excursions and team bonding opportunities, each day offered new experiences that helped shape the program both on and off the court.
"Our trip to Japan was an unforgettable experience filled with beautiful scenery, delicious food and memories that will last a lifetime," said newcomer Emily Bruss. "Witnessing and facing a different style of volleyball helped us gain a whole new perspective of the game."
The trip provided valuable international competition and exposure to different playing styles while strengthening team chemistry. From competing abroad to navigating new cities and cultures together, the Bears created lasting memories that will carry into the 2026 season.
As UNC Volleyball prepares to defend its conference title, the experience in Japan serves as a meaningful step forward both in competition and in connection as a team.
FOLLOW THE BEARS: Fans can follow and stay up to date on all the Bear action online and on social media. Follow the Bears on X (formerly Twitter) (@UNC_BearsVB), Instagram (@UNC_BearsVB), and Facebook (/UNCBearsVB)
"Our trip to Japan was an incredible opportunity to grow as competitors, teammates and people. The volleyball challenged us, the cultural experiences broadened our perspective, and the memories we created together will greatly help us this fall. Representing UNC internationally is something our student-athletes will carry with them for the rest of their lives. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this unforgettable experience possible. It was a perfect example of what we mean when we say our program is about more than volleyball" stated Head Coach, Lyndsey Oates.
Throughout the 10-day trip, the Bears embraced opportunities both on and off the court, with student-athletes gaining new perspectives through international play, cultural exploration and shared experiences across the country.
One of the highlights came in Osaka, where the team explored the historic Osaka Castle, one of Japan's most iconic landmarks, before sampling local cuisine and street treats. The day continued with a visit to Kansai University, where the Bears observed traditional Japanese activities including archery, martial arts and sumo wrestling, providing a deeper appreciation for the country's rich culture. The experience concluded with international competition as UNC took the court for a four-set match.
"My favorite part of Japan was experiencing a new culture and seeing daily life through a different lens," said senior libero Bella LePore. "Competing against talented volleyball teams taught us lessons we'll carry back to our own gym."
The Bears later traveled from Kyoto to Tokyo, beginning the day with a stop at Nara Park, where team members spent the morning interacting with the park's famous deer. The group then reunited to board Japan's renowned bullet train, experiencing one of the country's most recognizable modes of transportation on their way to Tokyo.
Despite rainy weather upon arrival, the team embraced the opportunity to explore the city together, walking through Tokyo's streets under umbrellas before enjoying a traditional Shabu-Shabu dinner at Momo Paradise. The evening concluded with a visit to the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, where the Bears shopped, explored and experienced one of Tokyo's most vibrant districts.
On June 22, the team traveled to Moriya, Japan, Greeley's sister city. Located approximately an hour outside of Tokyo, Moriya welcomed the Bears for a day of cultural exchange that included visits to City Hall, local elementary and middle schools, and opportunities to interact with students throughout the community.
The Bears spent time teaching volleyball skills to local children, learning about Japanese school life and culture, and sharing experiences with students and community members. The visit also included a traditional Japanese school lunch, providing another unique glimpse into everyday life in Moriya.
As the trip came to a close, the team made the most of their final day in Japan. Before departing for the airport, team members spent time shopping, exploring the city and visiting attractions such as Tokyo DisneySea. The team departed Tokyo on June 24 and traveled back to the United States, landing in Los Angeles before continuing to Denver and eventually returning to Greeley later that evening.
While these moments stood out, they represented only a portion of the team's experience in Japan. From daily training sessions and international competition to cultural excursions and team bonding opportunities, each day offered new experiences that helped shape the program both on and off the court.
"Our trip to Japan was an unforgettable experience filled with beautiful scenery, delicious food and memories that will last a lifetime," said newcomer Emily Bruss. "Witnessing and facing a different style of volleyball helped us gain a whole new perspective of the game."
The trip provided valuable international competition and exposure to different playing styles while strengthening team chemistry. From competing abroad to navigating new cities and cultures together, the Bears created lasting memories that will carry into the 2026 season.
As UNC Volleyball prepares to defend its conference title, the experience in Japan serves as a meaningful step forward both in competition and in connection as a team.
FOLLOW THE BEARS: Fans can follow and stay up to date on all the Bear action online and on social media. Follow the Bears on X (formerly Twitter) (@UNC_BearsVB), Instagram (@UNC_BearsVB), and Facebook (/UNCBearsVB)
Players Mentioned
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