HSU Cowgirls Take Their Talents to Brazil: Four Players Selected for USA Women’s D-3 Tour

Four Hardin-Simmons University Cowgirls represented the United States in Brazil as part of a once-in-a-lifetime experience that exemplifies how HSU opens doors to transformative, real-world learning. 

Mercy Mummert (Albuquerque, N.M.), Kalea Willis (Fort Worth, Texas), Taylor Garrett (McKinney, Texas), and Alexis Templin (San Angelo, Texas) were selected from Division III schools nationwide to join the 2025 USA Women’s Division III Tour Team. The four athletes competed in soccer matches against Brazilian teams in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. 

“I was so excited and found it so unreal that I was one of 17 girls asked to go out of the entire country,” said Alexis Templin. 

Beyond Athletic Achievement 

While many universities speak about global engagement, HSU delivers. Through experiences like this, students are placed on international stages where they can test their skills, broaden their perspectives, and grow as well-rounded individuals and followers of Christ.

The USA Women’s Division III Brazil Tour was more than just a soccer trip; it was an educational journey that created a learning environment no textbook could replicate.

“HSU is the best college if you want to enjoy the present luxury of sports while focusing on the future priorities of a career,” Templin said.

Cultural Immersion and Competition 

Brazil’s vibrant soccer culture presented a powerful and unique environment. These Cowgirls found themselves immersed in a society where soccer is not just a sport, it is a way of life.

“The playing style in Brazil is a lot different than here in America, and playing with girls whom I have never played or even practiced with was definitely interesting because we had to learn how to play together in the first 90 minutes of our first game,” Templin said.

Navigating life in Brazil introduced them to unfamiliar cultural norms, communication styles, and daily routines. From exploring historic neighborhoods in Rio to tasting authentic Brazilian dishes, every moment was a learning experience.

“One U.S. dollar is equivalent to 5.5 real. On average, the annual salary for a Brazilian working is $3,000,” Templin said. “It definitely puts into perspective how blessed we are with all the things we have, but it also proves that money does not equal happiness.”

Practical Skills and Global Perspective 

From managing international flights to overcoming language barriers, each step of this journey demanded problem-solving, independence, and flexibility.

“I learned that learning a new language definitely comes in handy when being a guest in someone else’s country,” Templin said. “They gave more respect and were willing to negotiate when we spoke.”

The bonds they built with teammates, coaches, opponents, and local communities became meaningful connections and lifelong memories. Whether cheering with fans in the stands or praying with their team after a match, every moment helped these young women grow in confidence and character.

“The girls were so eager to trade and give gifts. It was so great to play against them because soccer is their life and their source of income,” Templin said. “Seeing that a sport shapes their life was so eye-opening because in a way it has shaped ours, but we have the blessing to attend school and be more than our sport.”

Long-Term Impact 

The experience in Brazil will forever leave a mark on these Cowgirls’ hearts. In today’s global job market, employers seek individuals who can adapt quickly, work across cultures, and thrive under pressure.

“I took it as an honor to represent the U.S., regardless of the size of the stage we were on,” Templin said. “I take great pride in being an American and all it entails.”

The trip included spontaneous moments that became powerful learning experiences. Attending a Flamengo soccer match offered insights into a passionate fan culture that surpassed that of major American sporting events.

“The entire stadium was filled, and it was crazier and more glorified than a Super Bowl game here in America,” Templin said. “HSU has given me a lot of confidence in the Lord, and I have really learned to follow in what he has in store for me, and I feel like this was one of those moments that led me to my successes.”

As these Cowgirls walk back onto the field at the Grape Street Complex, they bring with them not just memories but momentum, proof that when HSU students dare to go beyond their comfort zones, they return equipped with the real-world skills and global perspective that will serve them throughout their careers and lives.