I had to hold back tears at our first practice last Monday. Our team was warmed up and ready to begin at 3:00pm sharp, and then during our first water break players got a quick drink and then grabbed a ball (some even partnered up) and spread around the gym to work on shooting. It was a beautiful sight.
After 3 years, we now have a core group of girls that understand what we expect from athletes in our program. The first two years, players fought against hard work and structure. Saturday practices? Were we crazy? Boring fundamentals? That’s no fun. Defensive slides until your quads burn? Never.
We had players pouting. Players quitting. Parents complaining.
Those first years were tough. But some players soaked it in. They learned over the seasons. Grew as players and human beings. So that by last season, my third year, we were a stronger team. Our two seniors, who were not our starters, were a huge part of our success. They worked hard and believed in the concept of team.
I know this season will be great, no matter our record, due to the powerful and positive vibe I see on the on the court and team pride I see in their eyes.
