Oct. 28, 2015
June 25, 2015
The first video footage from KWOB's trip to St. Vincent and the Grenadines in May has been released. Stay tuned for a full-length documentary, but for now, this exclusive trailer, done by Alyson Murphy, can be viewed below. Enjoy!
May 16, 2015
Day 7 - Images by UCF Knights
Final Thoughts: What the student-athletes have to say about KWOB:
Abbie Fleener (Volleyball): "I am grateful to UCF for giving me this opportunity that I wouldn't have had otherwise. My fellow UCF student-athletes gave their own shoes off their feet to people who needed them. I saw them embrace and love on the kids that they just met, and I truly feel that some of those children will be better people because of it. This trip has given me the opportunity to see the beauty that people have in their hearts and that making a difference, even if it's just for one person, can have a profound impact on their lives. I am so proud to be a Knight and of all the work we have done this past week."
Ashley Spivey (Women's Soccer): "The `It' moment for me on this trip occurred last night in which a few of us played in the street soccer competition. Our UCF team was the only team in the tournament that contained girls. When I was sitting on the bench, a group of women came up behind me and tapped me on the shoulder. The group proceeded to tell me that they were rooting for all of us girls and they were proud of us. This really hit home for me. I no longer felt like I was playing for myself, but for all the women and children on this island. It was awesome to know that I was giving them hope for women and sports."
Scott Teal (Football): "The biggest takeaway of all for me this trip is never letting opportunities pass you by. I wasn't even aware of this trip until one month prior to leaving, and I am beyond glad I did what I had to do to come along. You truly never know how long you have to get to know people and do things until the day comes when that is no longer an option. This became clear to me when I had to say goodbye to the kids at school yesterday, when I had to say goodbye to our hosts today and I'm sure the toughest of all will be saying goodbye to St. Vincent tomorrow morning."
Morgan Ferrara (Women's Soccer): "I don't really know how to explain it, but being here made me realize people just love each other in such a humble way. They help each other out and expect absolutely nothing in return. It was so amazing to walk down the street and every single person you pass by wants to talk and ask about your day. This trip has given me a craving to make a difference in this world."
Alexis Gemme-Piacente (Men's Golf): "When I was younger, I remember being so impressed by older athletes and remember how big of an impact they had on me. I always dreamed of becoming them, and luckily, now I am in this position. With the KWOB program, student-athletes have an opportunity to impact the lives of young kids who aspire to be successful. I can't begin to say how lucky and proud I am to be a part of this year's program. I truly hope to participate again. Charge on!"
May 15, 2015
Day 6 - Images by UCF Knights
Dana Faught (Volleyball): "Breakfast at 7:30 again this morning, then met up with the rest of the team at the library. The plan was to work on the roof the entire day and get it finished. It was difficult because about 5 people could really only work on the roof at a time. So those of us who weren't working on the library found stuff to do like rake leaves, pick up trash and place rocks around trees to make it more appealing.
After we were finished with that, Sophie, Caroline and I walked next door to the special needs school and talked to the teachers and played with the kids. I sat down with a girl who was about 10 or 11 years old who had Down syndrome. It took her a while to warm up to me, but when she did we drew things like whales, monkeys, trees and fish. I wanted her to draw them but I think she was more interested in watching me draw. Then, before I knew it, everyone wanted me to draw things! We spoke with the teacher and she explained to us how they have kids here that range from 3 to 21 years old. She said that age doesn't matter, it's all about their learning ability that places them in their respected classrooms. I was very happy to know they have a special school for them so they can learn a way to be successful. They also teach them how to cook, craft and sew, which they actually sell for profit.
After that we broke into groups that went to schools again, and I read to my same group I had yesterday. It was a great feeling when I saw them running towards me asking me if I'm was there to read to them again. They were so excited and so was I! We didn't read too long because they were so full of energy that I had to take them out to their playscape and let some of that energy out. We finished the day learning how to play marbles. Safe to say I still have no idea how to pitch a marble, but the kids I was playing with had no shame for laughing at my struggle. They're all a great bunch of kids, and I wanted so badly to tell them we were coming back tomorrow when they asked, but I had to say no. Tomorrow morning we are taking turns to finish the roof and have a little fun snorkeling before catching a ferry back to St. Vincent. Where did this week go?! It's amazing how fast this trip went by, not ready to leave yet. It's been such an eye-opening experience and I'm so grateful to be a part of it. Charge on!"
Shelby Foyer (Volleyball): "This island has officially stolen my heart. Everything about it is so wonderful. Today we worked on the library. We are redoing the roof and working on making it look nicer. I ran into Keifer, the boy I met yesterday. His face lit up! I asked him if he wanted to come back and check out what we had done at the library, so I brought him back.
We ended up going into the library and grabbing some books to read. The next part was my favorite part of the day. All five of the books he grabbed were bible books! While we were reading them, he knew al lthe stories and was so engaged. I could tell he knows how much our Lord loves him and I pray that a day never goes by that he does not thank the Lord for who he is. Keifer is such a ball of energy and that smile of his is extremely contagious. I met his grandmother and she told me, "Oh you're the one he wouldn't stop talking about last night." He is forever imprinted on my heart. And as I am writing this, tears are welling up. I pray for the Lord's favor in his life. He is a bright young boy!"
Matt Williams (Men's Basketball): " I woke up at 6 a.m. and started running with Javi. We ran about 2 miles and ran up a various amount of hills. After that we proceeded to go to the library and work on the roof. We left the library at 2:30 and then went straight to working a basketball camp, more time in the sun! Today was very, very tiring but worth every moment. This place is really nice and relaxing, it is much different than the U.S. because you are worry-free.
Another interesting thing I did today was get a haircut by a barber named Bunda. Bunda mentioned to me that in order to succeed in my sport, I have to approach it like a job. Dedication, determination and discipline is the way he informed me of how to approach life! I would say that this trip has made me more appreciative, but I have always been appreciative with everything in my life.
Tonight may be the last night on this island, but I'm definitely going to miss it. I may go to the beach alone and talk to God tonight, thank Him for all the things that have happened to me, whether good or bad. Ask Him to continue leading me down the road he has, and asking him to place me in position to be successful. My family is depending on me to be the one to make the break through, be the one that can stop all the worries. `Hard work' will always be my motto, no matter where life leads me. I'm just thankful to be alive."
May 14, 2015
Day 5 - Images by UCF Knights
Rodrigo Quirarte (Football): "Today was a day full of different activities. We started by going to pick up some trees that we then planted in the town. It was quite a walk, but the scenery was well worth it. After that, we visited the turtle sanctuary. It was amazing seeing and listening to the story of the person that created it. His passion was incredible and motivating. The things he does for the turtle is great and admirable.
In the afternoon after lunch, we divided into groups. Some guys went to different schools to read to kids while the rest of us stayed to work on the Bequia Library. Personally, it was an awesome experience being able to work on a project that started last year and seeing the results of it.
The library is still in great condition, and I loved seeing people walking into it to use it. Watching the results of all the hard work we put in it last year and that we are doing this year is amazing and a great motivator to keep doing something that has such a positive impact in the community. I had the opportunity to meet with the librarian and some kids that were in it reading books. They mentioned that they use it all the time and that people go there often to read and do school work.
Today was a great day since we not only helped in some new projects, but we also saw that what we do here has a great impact on the community and motivated us to work harder."
Sophie Howard (Women's Soccer): "When thinking about the past few days, I don't even know where to start. So many emotions, impactful events and special moments, mixed feelings and a chaos of thoughts. Let me try and organize these.
So, how do I describe this day? Not joyful, exciting or great. These works are not right. Today was significant. This is what I'm here for. This is completing my purpose of living. Let me clarify.
From now on, 'significant' to me means me life changing. Nothing less than that. I set myself the personal goal to have an impact on one person every new day. To make a difference in their lives. So for today, it was a big life changer for me. When preparing to plant some coconut trees near the beach, I went on my mission to fulfill my intentions. At the corner of main street, I saw this older local I had seen earlier that day, and I must admit, I was kind of wondering what he was still doing there. Anyway, I realized that this older guy wasn't wearing any shoes. So I walked over to the guy and asked him if he wanted to have my pair of shoes (No, I wasn't barefoot after. I had a second pair with me). He accepted them and I left. I was so nervous and confused. I hope he doesn't think that I think I'm better off. That's all I was thinking at that point in time. There's no way I think that. If I learned one thing in the past few days it's definitely their high quality of life. The locals here are so grateful and simply happy. And that's without a guaranteed meal at night or those good sneakers to walk those five miles to school every single day. So there I was. Confused. Nervous. `Breathe Soph. Go back and tell him how you feel.' So I did.
Of course, after letting him know how I felt, we obviously started a small conversation. Him saying that he believes that we all are living together in one world and saying that he really appreciates what we are doing here for the community in Bequia was so nice to hear. But what really made my day (maybe even my trip so far) was when he responded to my explanation of why I offered my shoes to him: `Money is good to have. But money can't buy love. And you are love. You just showed love. God bless you!' That's what I'm living for. This is why I'm here!"
May 13, 2015
Day 4 - Images by UCF Knights
Day 4
Shelly Frick (Softball '08): "There is something special about the bond between student-athletes and something uniquely powerful and passionate about what they do on a day-to-day basis. It's something I had when I was a student-athlete at UCF and something I hadn't realized I lost. Until now.
What I got back after spending just the first 5 hours with this group was more than I ever expected to get out of this entire trip. Seven years after graduation and well into my career in Corporate America, I work hard every day and I'm passionate about what I do. I enjoy my work. I go the extra mile because that's who I am. I care about my work quality, my client relationships, my reputation. And so far it's served me well. But being here with these student-athletes for these past few days has given me an additional perspective I hadn't yet thought about; or have too quickly forgotten. These kids care. They're passionate. They work hard every day at everything they do, on and off the field, and in this case, in a different country. They truly want to affect change in the world they live in and the best part about it all is that they actually do.
I've realized that I've forgotten what it was like to care that much, to want for something that much and to work that hard. I don't know when in the last seven years that happened and that's okay. I don't need to know when it happened but I'll be forever indebted to this group making me aware that it has happened. Beyond all the wonderful work this group is doing in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, I'm immensely and eternally grateful to participate alongside this incredible group of student athletes and for the perspective they've given me. I'll be forever changed as a result of it. So to each one of you here this week, thank you for all you've given me and thanks for bringing me home."
May 12, 2015
Day 3 - Images by UCF Knights
Day 3
Tristan Reaves (Football): "Second full day on the island, and I have mixed feelings. I think that this place is so cool. The landscape is beautiful, the people are so nice and I like how the island is self-sustained. I can really see myself living here or the Caribbean when I am older.
But on the other hand, today made me really take a step back. Yes, it's beautiful here but when I see the living conditions of the people and stray dogs, I feel like I need to do more to help. I know that's why we're here but I can't help but feel like I'm not doing enough. These kids are rushing to drink brown water out of a spigot while in Florida, our water is so abundant. Just all of our resources we have and take for granted, it's insane how spoiled and easy we have it."
Caroline Bado (Women's Soccer): "I have so many things running through my head from this incredible day I have had. As the group walked down this morning to the beach, Fire came up to me and began to talk with me. This guy was so interesting and genuine, it was unreal. I asked him what he loved the most about the island and he replied, `the love all the people have who live here.' He made some pretty amazing comments that will stick with me for the rest of my life. First one: `those who have a lot of money don't have as much love to give. But the people without very much money have all the love to give.' He continued, `the people of this island have all the love to give, and for me, I would want love over all the money in the world.' He's so right. I would trade all the money in the world to be around people that love each other just because they want to make each other happy. A funny thing Fire said was, `America is this free country but you can't pee where ever you want. But in St. Vincent, you pee where ever you want so who has the real free country?'
I was put in a group with Sophie and Wilkin but by the end of today I had about 25 little kids in the middle of the field just messing around. We started with my friend Aliyah and her friend. Then it turned into freeze tag with 12 kids and these 12 turned into 25 little kids. They taught me one of their games called Sad Sally that had a song they would sing and one person would act out what we were singing. Then at the end, the person in the middle would get up and give someone a hug and they would go to the middle and do the same. Though this game was so simple, the kids and myself had a blast playing. I found it so awesome how these kids could have fun in the simplest of ways.
Now I know I have an emotional side that I had always thought didn't exist. Aliyah today made me bawl my eyes out. This amazing little girl is all I can think about right now, and as I write this, my eyes began to water up. The bond I made with Aliyah is something I will hold for the rest of my life. She is the strongest, most amazing and beautiful girl I have ever met. When she had to leave all I wanted to do was to hold her in my arms and never let go. I walked to the road and watched her walk down until I couldn't see her anymore. I would do anything to see her again. I love this amazing 9-year-old girl and she has changed my life in ways I never thought were possible."
May 11, 2015
Day 2 - Images by UCF Knights
Day 2
Scott Teal (Football): "Today might have been the most adventurous day of my life.
A hike through the jungle, multiple waterfalls, ate fresh fruit picked from a tree, but climbing the mountain wasn't the peak of my day. The biggest highlight of today was spending the time getting to know these amazing fellow student-athletes in way I would never be able to do in the U.S. After five years of playing sports for the same school, I feel closer to these people than ever before. The impact we are making here is awesome, and it has only just begun.
I can't wait to see what tomorrow holds."
Carlin Huegli (Women's Soccer): "Wow...what a day. I'm currently writing this entry as I sit overlooking the water. I had been craving nature in my life and I'm definitely getting my fill here. We started the morning with breakfast and then we headed out around 8 a.m. for a four-hour hike. I thought it might be miserable considering the heat and the intensity of the hills. However, I caught myself running up the hills and racing Javi (he thinks he won... LOL). We stopped at a cliff so people could jump into the water. I didn't jump today but I definitely have to jump before we leave.
Eventually our hike led us to a waterfall spot where we could swim. As soon as I got to the rocks to get in, I slipped and took Bado down with me. A four-hour hike was nothing thanks to the amazing scenery.
After lunch we left for the school where we would work the camp. The kids went wild over my blonde hair. One boy ripped some out and held it like a trophy. I had such an amazing time watching the kids play sports, have fun and freak out over all us girls with blonde hair.
I met the sweetest little boy named TK who asked to borrow my shoes for the camp. I lent them to him and went barefoot for the day along with other local kids. I was worried I might not get them back. (There were so many kids, and he was so happy to be wearing good shoes compared to his pink flip flops). But it made me happyt o make him happy.
After camp was over, he ran up to me and said, "Here, miss...Thank you." My heart was so happy because he was so nice. We each get to choose a kid to give a ball to at the end of camp and I think I'll give mine to TK.
After camp we played a big 7v7 soccer game against the older school boys. We tied and all of us soccer players from UCF had to refrain from letting our competitive nature show. All in all, day 1 was more than amazing and I can't wait to continue on this adventure!!"
May 10, 2015
Day 1 - Images by UCF Knights
Day 1
Halle Scott (Volleyball): "How to go about a day of international travel...a memoir.
Step 1: Go to bed an hour and a half before you plan to wake up.
Step 2: Wake up an hour and a half later and rub all of the crusty stuff out of your eyes (maybe press snooze, but that's a personal preference).
Step 3: Squeeze 6 people and all of their luggage into a car for 5 people.
Step 4: Ride uncomfortably all the way to the airport and make sure you are exceptionally early (at least 2.5 hours).
Step 5: Lay around on the ground until everyone else shows up, trying to squeeze in a few extra minutes of sleep.
Step 6: Get in the check-in line and be sure to talk about how unfortunate it would be to lose your bag. -This step is essential.
Step 7: Go through the longest security line you've probably ever been through (because apparently 6 a.m. is a very popular time to travel).
Step 8: Board the plane (first of 3) and hopefully be in the second-to-last-row -For maximum level of happiness and comfort, be sure to sit IN BETWEEN two strangers
Step 9: Receive money for food (probably the highlight so far) but be sure to make at least 2 laps around the terminal to ensure you didn't miss any potential options for your last meal in America
Step 10: Board the plane to a foreign country of your choice and get ready for a bittersweet goodbye as you depart from the land of the free and also the best country in the world.
Step 11: Once seated, talk to your friends about the great week we have ahead of us. -Be sure to throw in another joke about losing your luggage because come on, that would be like soooo funny right?
Step 12: Get off the plane and take in your beautiful surroundings. -At this point, you're probably feeling great because how could you not when you're in a tropical island with your teammates and friends?
Step 13: Customs.:)
Step 14: Approach the luggage carousel and while everyone takes their bags, be sure to lap it at least 6 times. At this point, you're in a denial, there are probably more bags waiting to be sent out, right? -WRONG.
Step 15: Accept the fact that your bag is still in the homeland and you will be faced with these options:
1) Spend at least 36 more hours in the clothes on our backs or
2) Spend the next 36 hours like the hit TV show "Naked and Afraid" Since this is a school trip, we don't have much of a choice. Option 1 it is).
As you can see we are off to a FANTASTIC start. Since the bag dilemma of Barbados, all I have done is eat. Our bags should be reunited with us tomorrow after our hike, but until then, I apologize in advance for my appearance and possible odor. :)"
May 4, 2015
ORLANDO, Fla. -- On May 10, exactly one year after UCF's Knights Without Borders finished its first service trip to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the group will make its return to the island to continue building upon its mission -- using sport for social change.
UCF will once again work with Adonal Foyle's Kerosene Lamp Foundation during May 10-17. The foundation was created in 2003 to use sport as a bridge to the next generation, promoting education and health awareness, providing free athletics & academics camps and mentoring at-risk student-athletes.
UCF will spend the week running sports clinics/P.E. classes. After helping give a face lift to Bequia's library last year, the group will continue the project by giving the building a new roof as well as improved landscaping.
The group has spent the last several months fundraising money for the trip. Volleyball sophomore Shelby Foyer details the group's preparation in the video blog above. She will be joined with fellow student-athletes:
Men's Basketball
Justin McBride
Matt Williams
Women's Soccer
Sophie Howard
Amanda Wilkin
Morgan Ferrara
Ashley Spivey
Bridget Callahan
Carlin Huegli
Caroline Bado
Men's Soccer
Javier Clavijo
Football
Rodrigo Quirarte '15
Tristan Reaves
Scott Teal '15
Men's Golf
Alexis Gemme-Piacente
Volleyball
Shelby Foyer
Dana Faught
Halle Scott
Kia Bright
Abbie Fleener
Softball
Shelly Frick '07
To learn more about UCF's Knights Without Borders initiative, including how to support the program, click here.