Two promising freshmen from Hampton University’s volleyball programme, Taylor Shumate and Morgan Warren, recently had the distinct honor of representing Team HBCU at the Ditsala International cup in Gaborone, Botswana.This international competition, which took place from May 29 too June 2, brought together teams from various countries.
Shumate, hailing from Austin, Texas, and Warren, a native of Durham, North Carolina, were among a select group of HBCU student-athletes chosen for this prestigious event. Team HBCU competed against both collegiate teams from the United States and national teams from Southern Africa, ultimately achieving an undefeated record. Their notable performance culminated in winning the tournament championship after defeating a formidable team sponsored by Bring It Promotions (BIP).
Shumate shared her enthusiasm for the experience,describing it as “amazing” and highlighting the rewarding feeling of going undefeated in an international tournament. She also encouraged fellow HBCU volleyball players to embrace similar opportunities.
beyond the competitive aspect, the trip offered a profound developmental journey for the athletes. Following the tournament, they traveled to Francistown and Kasane, where they actively engaged with the local community by conducting youth volleyball clinics and leading coaching workshops. This outreach allowed them to contribute to the sport’s advancement while serving as global ambassadors.
The student-athletes also immersed themselves in the rich culture and natural beauty of Botswana.Their itinerary included wildlife safaris at Mokolodi Game Reserve and Khama rhino Sanctuary, as well as a boat safari on the Chobe river. The journey extended to Zambia and Zimbabwe, where they had the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, a globally recognized natural wonder.
A significant moment during their international engagement was a visit to the U.S. Embassy in Botswana. There, they met with diplomats and gained valuable insights into the role of sports diplomacy and international relations.Warren expressed her deep thankfulness for the experience, stating her gratitude for the chance to represent Hampton University on such a historic occasion. She affirmed that the journey reinforced her dedication to achieving excellence both on and off the court and deepened her pride in being a part of Hampton’s esteemed legacy.
This international tour served as a powerful testament to the athletic prowess of Shumate and Warren, while also effectively showcasing the mission and excellence of Hampton University volleyball on a global platform. Their participation marked a significant achievement for the program, fostering a renewed sense of pride throughout the Pirate Nation.