The Fairfield University Women's Basketball team is set to begin a 10-day tour of Portugal and Spain, starting August 3. They will play three games while exploring key cultural sites, including Lisbon and Seville. This trip provides the team an opportunity to build chemistry both on and off the court, as stated by Head Coach Carly Thibault-DuDonis. The itinerary includes a mix of sightseeing, cultural immersion, and community service, aimed at enhancing team bonding. The Stags, looking for their fourth consecutive conference title, will feature seven newcomers for the upcoming season.

By the Numbers
  • 3 games scheduled during the tour.
  • 10 days of practice and competition allowed by NCAA rules.
  • 87-12 overall record in the last three championship seasons.
  • 5th highest winning percentage in Division I during that time.
State of Play
  • The Stags will start their tour with a visit to iconic sites in Belem.
  • They will engage in various activities, including a sailing cruise and a kayaking excursion.
  • Community service will be part of their itinerary, fostering local connections.
What's Next

Following the trip, the team will return to prepare for the 2026-27 season, focusing on integrating newcomers into their system. The experiences gained during the tour are expected to translate into stronger team dynamics as they chase another conference title.

Bottom Line

This overseas trip goes beyond basketball; it is designed to deepen relationships among team members while broadening their cultural perspectives. The combination of competition and exploration serves as a vital precursor to what they hope will be another successful season.