SANFORD - Central Carolina Community College's women's basketball team had the opportunity for an amazing experience on Tuesday, Dec. 8, when the Lady Cougars hosted a team from New South Wales, Australia.

"It was a great honor to have the Australia team visit Central Carolina Community College and compete against our Lady Cougars," said Heather M. Willett, CCCC Dean of Student Support Services. "They exhibited great basketball ability and team spirit.

"I think that the most rewarding part of this experience for both teams was making a direct connection with people from different backgrounds," said Willett.

The New South Wales team, which won the game, is comprised of high school athletes who will play 11 games in 20 days while in the United States.

"They're loving it," New South Wales Coach Robbie McKinlay said of his team's visit to the United States. "They love the hospitality they've received down here in the South."

McKinlay is no stranger to American basketball, having played at Belmont Abbey and coached at Augusta State.

"This positive global learning experience is exactly what we aspire to provide to students as a part of our college mission," said Willett.

For more information on the Central Carolina Community College sports program, visit www.cccc.edu/sports.