First, I would like to wish both the women’s Volleyball team good luck in the ODAC tourney this weekend and our football team good luck on Saturday vs. Randolph-Macon.
We had a very busy last few weeks not just on the basketball court but also in the community. First, we were a part of the “Red Ribbon Week” at John Wayland Elementary School. We spoke to the students about making good decisions and saying “NO” to drugs and alcohol. Also, we had Mrs. Joyce Floyd’s (Justin Brake’s Grandma) special needs class from R.E. LEE High School visit our beautiful campus and shoot hoops with the team in Nininger Hall. Both of these events were wonderful experiences for each party involved. My student–athletes were able to see what a positive impact they have on kids of all ages. Also, it reemphasizes to our student-athletes what our staff tries to teach them every day in practice that you are setting an example every day in all you do - that’s for on the court and off the court.
I had the pleasure to speak at the Coaches vs Cancer Tip off Breakfast at Ham’s Restaurant where the proceeds went to the American Cancer Society for the fight against cancer. That same evening I was invited along with Coach Willi to the Shenandoah Valley Athletic Club meeting to speak about our upcoming season along with the men’s and women’s basketball coaches from JMU and EMU. This particular dinner it was a special occasion. My wife (Stephanie) and my dad attended this dinner and it was the first time that both of them heard me speak at the event. It is great to have over 100 people gather who are just passionate and supportive about athletics in the Shenandoah Valley as a whole. No matter what team you may root for – they all have a sincere interest in all sports in the “Valley”. If you have not been to one of the monthly gatherings you should attend.
Our guys have been working hard and trying to get comfortable with learning each other’s tendencies on the court. For example, who likes to post up on the right block instead of the left block, who prefers to shoot off the chest pass or off the down screen – all of these “little things” which can help you win the “close game”. We are getting better each day, some days slower than others, but that is expected with the injuries and guys getting accustomed to new roles or different roles.
Reminder for this Saturday:
The BC football game is at 1 p.m. and, from 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. is the women’s basketball team spaghetti dinner AND the men’s basketball scrimmage against a BC alumni team.
The alumini team consists of class of ’09 Rob Rice, Brett Maynard, Matt Drewer; ’08 Andrew Cathlin, Josh Fox, Jay Strotman and ’07 Michael Jenkins .
I want to thank these guys for participating. Come out and enjoy the Saturday festivities.
