TOKYO, JAPAN - Two members of the SUNY Oneonta field hockey program, Alexandra Howell (Holtsville, N.Y./Sachem East) and Maura Leib (East Syracuse, N.Y./East Syracuse Minoa), recently returned from an international trip, competing and exploring abroad as part of the Beyond Sports Field Hockey Tour in Japan. The trip combined elite international competition with cultural immersion, allowing the student-athletes to represent their sport while experiencing one of the world's most unique destinations.

The opportunity came after both athletes had previously participated in a Beyond Sports tour to Spain in 2024. Their positive experience led to an invitation to join the organization's 2026 tour of Japan, where they spent time in Tokyo and Kyoto and visited Nikko and Osaka.

While the sightseeing opportunities were memorable, the competition provided an equally impactful experience. According to Alexandra Howell (Holtsville, N.Y./Sachem East), the level of play was unlike anything she and her teammates had experienced before. The tour squad faced some of Japan's top talent, including a team featuring several members of the Japanese National Team.

"The level of competition was unlike anything we had experienced before," Howell said. "We had the opportunity to play against what was probably the most skilled field hockey team we have ever seen, including several members of the Japanese National Team."

The tour team was comprised of student-athletes from NCAA Division II and Division III programs across the country. Despite limited time to practice together beforehand, the group quickly formed strong connections both on and off the field. The chemistry developed almost immediately, creating an atmosphere that pushed everyone to improve while building friendships with athletes from different backgrounds and programs.

Away from competition, the trip provided numerous opportunities to experience Japanese culture firsthand. Among the highlights were participating in a sumo wrestling class, visiting the breathtaking Kegon Falls, and sampling a variety of local foods throughout the journey.

For Howell and Leib, adjusting to life in Japan came with a few challenges, most notably the 13-hour time difference from New York. However, the adjustment was made easier by what they found upon arrival: exceptionally clean cities, efficient public transportation, and welcoming surroundings. Despite traveling during Japan's rainy season, the pair enjoyed sunny weather throughout the trip, allowing them to make the most of their time exploring the country.

Beyond Sports was established in 2010 and has grown to become the world leader in international sports tours. They create mutually-beneficial opportunities for U.S. student-athletes, international athletes, and international youth to enjoy a life-changing cross-cultural experience through sport. They are a team of former college athletes, educators, coaches, and international adventurers who are passionate about "Connecting the World Through Sports!"