We have been greeted not so warmly here in the sunshine state. It seemed a little odd to head off to our first practice in the out of doors with temperatures in the low 50's. In addition, much like New York, it was also quite windy. However, this mattered not to the players who were ready, willing and able.
I often say that some things are worse for the coaches. This is one of those things. For me, it would have been much better to play rather than to watch. The players had little trouble adjusting to the conditions which is a terrific indication of what I hope is to come. To look so sharp after a long day of travel and in the weather elements is a credit to the mental toughness of the players and shows me that they are ready to compete. I know that this team as a whole feels the lack of respect from the ranking chair and committee and has a mission to prove it's case.
We were able to grab a decent meal at Outback and get some grocery shopping done before retiring to our condos. We certainly need a good night's rest which would have come earlier if not for Benas Majauskas' "extreme energy" and subsequent need to order everything on the menu. It seems as though Sunday will be slightly more favorable for tennis and we have two practice sessions planned. We will travel to Daytona Beach to play Embry Riddle on Monday. We always like to start the trip with an NAIA opponent as preparation for the NCAA matches. ERAU is always a strong and well coached squad and this year is no different as they are ranked #1 by the NAIA.
In any case, I must now go on a quest to find a GNC type store to get some protein. I really hope I can avoid GNC (because it sucks) and it's absurdly high prices as perhaps there is another option here by the beach mall. Then off to the gym.
Check in with you later.
Nuff said...
