Marquette University Athletics
Ah ... The Memories of Home
2/15/2005 12:00:00 AM | Women's Basketball
by Monica Frede
Yes, I know it's hard to grasp, but we finished out our home games this past weekend. We did win both games, which was so crucial for us! We beat TCU on Friday night and then Houston on Sunday. It was such a good experience for us all, not only because it was the last time Lesley and I would play at The Al, but because we bonded as a team even more.
I remember from the past years that those last home games are just as important as any other game during conference play, but there is extra motivation and extra emotion because the end of the season starts to become a reality. Sure, we all complain about pre- and post-season workouts, but every year when the seniors are faced with saying goodbye to it all, it becomes really hard.
We only have three conference games left. It is unfortunate that we have to finish the season out on the road, but 'tis life. And, Mrs. Kieger, feel free to send your pumpkin bars or cookies on the road with us. Just because we're not at home doesn't mean we wouldn't eat them. For us, these games are so important, because we know we can play as motivated as we do at home on the road, and it's time we prove it.
I want to say a few thank-you's (as if Lesley and I didn't say enough on Sunday). Thank you to all of you fans for coming out and supporting us! Our team talks often about the traditions we want to start at home; that other teams will dread having to come and play here, because the fans make it such an intimidating atmosphere. So thank you to all of you who have been here since the beginning! And the band ... thanks guys! You keep it fun, don't change anything!
Lesley and I still talk about how fast this season went by. We can't believe we're actually done playing at home. But, we are not done playing yet! We still have a lot of fight in us, and we want to extend this season out as long as possible. Even though we're not at The Al, people, warm your cars up and head down to Chicago next weekend, and then take the family on a road trip to Charlotte for the conference tournament. It will be quality time well spent!
Until next week,
This is the 11th entry in a series of diary entries by senior forward Monica Frede. Her diary will appear during the course of the 2004-05 season on www.gomarquette.com.
