CENTRAL, S.C. - The Southern Wesleyan Men's Basketball team ended last semester by traveling to the Dominican Republic on a week-long mission trip. After returning to campus from their summer break, moving into their dorm rooms, and registering for fall classes, several team members took a break from their busy schedules to visit children at the Shriners Hospital in Greenville. SWU Head Coach Charles Wimphrie hopes to send a message to his team on just how blessed they are. "These young men have been exposed to several aspects of life over the last three months," said Wimphrie. "They've witnessed the harsh conditions in the Dominican Republic and experienced up close these children at the hospital who find a way to have uplifting spirits in spite of their difficult situations."

Shriners Hospitals for Children is a one-of-a-kind international system of 22 hospitals dedicated to improving the lives of children by providing specialty pediatric care. Children with orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries and cleft lip and palate are eligible for admission at no cost - regardless of financial need.

Senior forward Nick Crowder sees the experience as uplifting, educational and rewarding, saying "In my field of study I will be working with mentally challenged children. This experience helps me to see through God's eyes the desire and determination these children have to make their situation better. I am truly blessed."