Chippewa Valley Times

University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire volleyball player Sasha Bovard is set to participate in the second annual Ditsala International Cup in Gaborone, Botswana. The tournament will take place from May 29 to June 1, 2025, and is organized by Bring It Promotions (BIP) and the Botswana Volleyball Federation (BVF). This event will feature teams from the United States as well as national teams from Southern Africa.

Bovard, an outside hitter, has been chosen as one of 18 athletes for Team BIP. These players come from 14 universities across the U.S., offering them a chance to compete against top international athletes while engaging in cultural exchanges. Beyond competing in the tournament, Team BIP will conduct youth volleyball clinics and coaching workshops throughout Africa and partake in various cultural experiences. The group will also embark on a three-country tour that includes visits to wildlife reserves and a U.S. Embassy.

The Ditsala International Cup provides Bovard with a valuable opportunity for international exposure both on and off the court. This marks her first major international competition.

Historically, the UW-Eau Claire volleyball team has had significant international involvement. Notably, Kendra Baierl participated in the 2022 Global Challenge in Europe as part of BIP's U23 SE All-Star Team.