2026 302 Tour Blog
6/11/2026
THURSDAY, JUNE 11
Day one of the fourth-annual tour started off with community service at the Community Education Building in Wilmington, presented by Saul Ewing. The Fightin’ Blue Hens helped around the building and in the community by cleaning the library, restocking the pantry, and picking up trash around the building.
After two hours of lending a hand, the Hens hit up the waterfront for some mini golf and lunch provided by Surf Bagel.
A few holes in one later, the crew got on the bus and got ready to see Pea Patch Island and Fort Delaware. A quick ferry ride to the island and the cohort was taking in the sites of the former Civil War prison. The team learned that the compound was never fired upon and served as the second-largest city in the State of Delaware. It was also the largest hospital in the region outside of Philadelphia. The staff at the fort fired off a stationary gun to give the tour a chance to see how heavy artillery worked during the Civil War.
After a quick break to rest and recharge, it was time for field day presented by Bank of America. A pool party, field games, and bounce houses were packed with community members at the free event. Dinner was served from Grotto’s Pizza with slices and chicken fingers to go around.
Day 1 is always so special on the 302 Tour! Not only was I able to meet other student-athletes that I don’t typically cross paths with during our seasons, but I was also able to experience new stops and learn more about the state. The activity that I was a part of at the Community Education Building really stood out to myself and my teammate, Sara. We worked on restocking the shelves within their food market and saw some of the lunch packs that we create each year as a team at the Food Bank. It was truly full circle and so inspiring to see how our work is impactful towards the community. All the stops were so interesting, and of course, ending the day with our annual field day is always a blast! Jumping in the bounce-houses with kids from around the community was so memorable and reminded me what this journey and tour is all about- connectivity and having fun!Mackenzie Owens, track & field
