Hong Kong

Well our last match at Fisu finally came, we were playing for 11.  

 

We found out before the match that the top 12 automatically get into the next FISU Games.  So that no matter what Canada has a spot if they want!  We started what has become our starting group with Jaki, Krista, Tricia, Jaimie, Marie-Sophie and Shanice, with Noe as libs.  We wanted to see if we can still find a new level as if this was our bronze if we were on the A side. The packed gym was definitely cheering against us tonight.  

The team came out firing on all cylinders and had no problems with the Hong Kong team, winnig the first set 25-16.  Alain decided that it was chance for our role players to get some quality court time.  These athletes had worked so hard this summer to be part of this team and contributed greatly when called upon.  We had depth in all positions.  We started Beth and Alicia in the middle with Alex setting, Kristi and Shanice at leftside.  It took them a little while to get some rythm, but when they got comfortable they played close to flawless, Beth ended up with 7 kills 3 stuff blocks and one ace in the two sets she played to lead the team in scoring.

Beth was impressive this summer.  She, like all the athletes was the go to person on her university team.  She was looked upon to be the one to get the ball in pressure situations.  This summer she was asked to accept a role of serving a defense once the tournament started. She followed through with the role and made some big plays for us.  Every athlete would want to play more, Beth is no different.  She didn't once complain or show frustration she was always up and trying to find ways to contribute and motivate. So it was great to see her end the FISU being successful as a main player.
 

Once the match ended both teams lingered on the court, they poised for pictures together some athletes traded jersey's.  No one really wanted it to end.  In the team room after we had the chance as coaches to thank the athletes for trusting us and allowing us to be a part of this experience.  It is something I will never forget.  Alain said you are responsible to make your own memories and we did.
We then went out as a team to the cultural center for dancing and meeting with other athletes and coaches.  But had a great chance just to sit and talk one on one as a coaching staff and to some athletes that would come over to reminisce about funny things that happened this summer.

Ok just one last add on.  It is Sunday now and we just got back from cheering our basketball guys on to a semi-final win. They are headed to the final.  A real good friend of mine Barnaby Craddock is part of the coaching staff, so to see his face after and be able to celebrate this win with him was incredible.  

 

I love this event!