March 10, 2006

By: Elin Otter, Metro State Sports Information

It's 9:30 p.m. and I just returned to the hotel following the pre tournament meeting with the region's coaches, administrators and sports information staff.

The tournament is quite a big deal here in Winona, Minn., as the mayor showed up and spoke about what hosting this event means to a small town like this.

After his welcome, the NCAA tournament director Butch Raymond invited the coaches to introduce their coaching staffs and talk a bit about their seasons.

After a few jokes, Raymond went over what to expect over the weekend. He talked about rules, schedules and the tournament format. The meeting lasted for about an hour before it was time to mingle.

A big smorgasbord was set up with all kinds of delicious dishes. The Metro State coaches, led by head coach Mike Dunlap, enjoyed some lighter snacks before retreating to the hotel and the scouting report for tomorrow's game.

Metro State administrators stayed and caught up with fellow colleagues.

As of now, the players are in their rooms getting ready for bed. Their day starts at 8 a.m. with some snacks before the team meeting. Pre-game meal is set for 9:45 which will consist of two eggs, bacon, sausage and pancakes. With that they will drink water. I would recommend bottled water...