Madrid, Spain - Simone Hobdy and Niajah Morgan, of the Adelphi University women's basketball team recently traveled to Spain from June 4 through June 13 to be a part of the Beyond Sports' Annual Basketball Tour.

Hobdy and Morgan joined a squad of players from colleges across the country to take on top club teams in Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia.
 
Spain is one of the top countries in the world in regard to both the men's and women's games. The women's national team took silver in Rio and the men's national ueam has been on the podium for the last three Olympic Games. Success at the highest level has been fueled by a world-class basketball ecosystem at the club and university levels. While touring and competing, the Panthers were able to provide learning experiences to local youth as a part of their trip. 

"One of the best parts of my trip went beyond basketball as I was able to give back to local children in Spain during a basketball clinic for the youth," said Morgan. "Most importantly, I made bonds with some amazing people thanks to the Beyond Sports organization - I encourage anyone who's ever presented with an opportunity like this to take advantage of it."

Hobdy added: "My trip to Spain with Beyond Sports this summer was hands down the best experience of my life so far. Not only was I blessed with the opportunity to play international basketball with some extremely talented players from various parts of the world, but I was also able to see some breathtaking scenery and the art of the beautiful cities of Madrid, Toledo, Valencia, and Barcelona."

Beyond Sports, founded in 2010, is the first study abroad program designed specifically for student-athletes. The organization offers experiences for athletes in Panama, Costa Rica, South Africa and Australia.