Today, we got a little treat as we got to practice against some of our alumni. They did a great job as a scout team, and it was fun to play with them again :) But it isn’t just the alums that are being helpful, we always say that everyone on the team plays an important role in our success, and this is certainly true. Jess already mentioned how the team really came together to pull out a victory over JCU on Tuesday, and I completely agree. Everyone, no matter what her role, is really focused on the team’s success. Those who don’t get the chance to play still play such an important role. They go hard every day in practice and most of the time they don’t get breaks. They have to press and play defense for fifteen minutes straight sometimes! And their support and leadership from the bench is going to continue to be a huge key for us down the stretch.
Our game against JCU in the Quarterfinal was one of my favorite games to play in. Even though we struggled the entire game and never really had a lead, everyone played with so much passion, enthusiasm and faith that there was never any doubt in my mind we would win. We were down by one with fifteen seconds to play when sophomore Catherine “Kitty Cat” Spisak got fouled in the 1-and-1, and I knew she would make her free throws even though she was spazzing out at the line a little bit.
Dear Kitty,
Next time focus more on the rim during your clutch free throws and not the confusion over what defense we are going to be in.
Love,
Ariel
Basically, what I’m trying to say is that I’m very proud of everyone who stepped it up, put their fears and frustrations aside, and gave me an opportunity to play in another game. People kept up that attitude today in practice. Everyone is dialed in and focused on the physical AND mental parts of the game. I can’t wait until 8 pm tomorrow!
<---------Kitty and I fifteen game-seconds after she hit her free throws. This is the best picture ever because it shows the thrill of victory and genuine friendship. There is nothing better than celebrating a hard fought victory with your friends...
...even if it means blowing out their eardrums. Sorry Kitty.
