Team changes training venue to Washington D.C. before heading to Argentina
July 18, 2008
WASHINGTON, D.C. -Â We arrived in Washington D.C. on Wednesday afternoon. Since it was a long travel day, we gave the team a day off from practice which gave them an opportunity to tour our nation's capital that evening. Bill, Carol and I opted to stay in so we could do our phone calls to recruits that day. For those who aren't familiar with the NCAA rules, Division I coaches are given certain time periods when we can call potential student-athletes, and Wednesday started that small window of opportunity to get in touch. However, we get another chance to tour Sunday before departing for Argentina.
I'm glad we made the trip here. A change in venue was good for everyone, it keeps things fresh! Also, being here reminds all of us of the responsibility we have representing our country on the international stage. When we walk to practice at the Verizon Center (home of the Wizards and Mystics), so many people give us thumbs up and want to talk to the players about the competition coming up. People are genuinely excited for us and I think that makes the players realize that much more the task they have in front of them.
So... what about practice? We have had plenty of great moments and also some challenges, which is quite typical for any group at any age. We are no doubt growing, but we do have our moments of fatigue, whether it is mental, emotional or physical. I am sure these players have never had the type of workouts we are putting them through and what they don't realize is that they are getting better. It just comes in baby steps. Remember, we are coaching a very talented bunch and all of them have been the best at their high school and on their AAU teams. Now they are learning a new system and learning each other's style. Thus, they each have to find the role that works best for the team. Roles are so vital to the success of this team and they are embracing those roles as we get closer to the start of our adventure to Argentina.
One player who knows her role is three-time Olympian Katie Smith. Katie stopped in to talk to our team, and she had some very inspirational words to share. Katie is no doubt a winner and she will do whatever it takes for the success of the team. We get to see her in action tonight as her Detroit Shock take on the Washington Mystics. I know the players are all very excited to go to a WNBA game. It is a well-deserved break!Â
My days continue to be busy, and today was no exception. It was actually quite an adventure as I went to a laundromat with Bill and Greg (our manger) to get some wash done. Since we are only allowed one bag for being away 28 days I figured it was time to freshen up the clothes! It was so hot in the laundromat that we had to step outside in the 94 degree weather to cool off! I felt like I had run a marathon, but it was all worth it because all of my clothes are clean for Argentina!
When I do get breaks from the routine of practice and planning strategy, I am busy with the affairs of my own team. I really miss seeing everyone and it puts a smile on my face when one of my players sends me a text or email checking in to see how I am doing. My staff has been wonderful as well taking care of the home front and doing a great job of covering the landscape of July recruiting. I am so blessed to be surrounded by such great people on my staff and team. We truly are a family and it will be great to see them in August!
I have to run. It's time to get ready for the game tonight. I'll be in touch again soon!
Go USA!
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