With eight official matches against a strong Chile side, more against Under 19 sides, training, analysis and South American travel, it's been a packed return to international touring for the Volley Ferns.
"It was full on!" said captain Petra Manderson. "We had non-stop volleyball and travel for two weeks, it's been pretty challenging at times, but it's been great for us as a team, an awesome experience with so much volleyball packed into such a short amount of time."
"As a team, we've learned to battle through things like a lack of sleep and different food, all those things you have to deal with when you're playing international volleyball," said Petra Manderson.
As the first New Zealand touring side since 2019, the Ferns have certainly noticed the step up meeting a hardened Chile side, who are deep in preparation for the Pan American Games.
"The game is definitely growing in New Zealand, but when you compete internationally it's a whole different level, a whole new speed. Getting to play so many games against a talented Chilean team was really good for us."
"Coming over here as underdogs and not winning a game was pretty tough, but I'm proud of how the team stayed together and went out there and fought for every point, wanted to win a match, and when we did win a set it was pretty epic, just how to battle through and not get down," said Petra Manderson.
Some of the team are staying on to travel in Chile and to the States, but many will be on the plan home. Having bonded together, Manderson says she'll miss being with the team. "Just being together 24/7 and getting close with old and new friends, living the volley life! It's been fun."
