The Time has Come

The Night Before   

         

Well here I sit the night before the big tournament. The provincial championships, the grand finale, the big enchilada, the final test. Tomorrow begins the final tournament of the year; this tournament will determine our final standing for the year. We are going in ranked #2 in the province for U17 girls and have our sights set on claiming the number 1 spot. Are we ready? I think so! Unlike last tournament where I was nervous due to lack of preparation, I believe we are prepared physically and hopefully mentally. We are almost fully healed and will have 9 active players this week with the return of the ankle and lower back ready to play. Even the cold has recovered and has had a good week of practice.

Speaking of practice, this week we were finally able to fine tune some defensive schemes and offensive adjustments. Even though we only went at half speed tonight I was very pleased with what I saw during our two practices this week. The team is gelling on the court almost to the same degree they seem to gel off the court. Of course, it would be very tough to match the connectedness this team has off the court and I am fortunate that it translates onto the court.

A very positive sign is the fact that “the Kid” is watching Space Jam while doing her homework the night before her big tournament. The other ladies seem to have a sense of anticipation for playing for a D1 championship this weekend. My final words at the end of practice consisted of me informing them that they have a chance to make history, we believe in them, and they can do it. From my end, this blog is serving its purpose as it is helping me to have an outlet for my excitement.

During the year I implemented some different aspects in terms of off-court activities and different approaches to practice. This evening I informally polled the ladies and the results are as followed.

Out of 8 players polled, 7 enjoyed and recommended the sessions with the performance consultant.

Out of 8 players polled, 7 enjoyed and recommend the university coach coming to practice and going to the university for practice.

All 8 enjoyed the idea of watching a university game.

So overall, I based upon their feedback I can conclude that the changes I made were received successfully. It is always hard to know what is going on in the minds of teenage girls and while I will never claim to fully understand them, I am glad that I was able to add some additional value to their season.

Now it is time to sit back and enjoy the games on the weekend.