Aug. 23, 2007

As Preseason started winding down the practice sessions became more and more challenging. Our coaches were now expecting a great deal more from us during drills and competition which took each and every one of us out of our comfort zones.

Although this was all mentally and physically draining, we didn't mind because we all saw the light at the end of the tunnel, tubing down the Tuckaseegee River. After certain practices we took advantage of the river that runs near campus by taking a break in the cool river water. The river was disappointingly too low for us to float down but we didn't mind. Instead we lay under the warm sun and ate ice cream. I don't know one girl who would ever complain about that.

Western Carolina's campus seemed to fill up all at once beginning as the freshmen began to invade campus for the start of school. The entire volleyball team (coaches included) lent as many hands as possible to those invading Walker Hall during the official move in day. It was not only a good way to gain required service hours but also to meet new and existing students.

We spred the word about our first home game (September 11th against Gardner-Webb University in Ramsey) with the help of the campus's radio station, 90.5 which has given us nothing but support in the past. Traveling up and down the flights of stairs in the dorm did not take away from our practicing. After our work was done we were right back on that court for another day's worth of volleyball preparing for the Purple/Gold scrimmage held in the Auxiliary Gym in the Ramsey Center.

The team was split down the middle with Coach [Stephanie] Dragan leading one team and Coach Ali [Magner] leading the other. It gave us all an opportunity to see what each player is like in a real game situation.

Both sides were evenly matched with, of course, one team surpassing the other. In the fifth game the Purple team served their way to fifteen points before the Gold could retaliate. Disappointment in a loss, however, was spared due to the tremendous effort put in by both teams. We proved ourselves tough competitors and with combined efforts we can all experience other victories. We appreciate all those involved with the event and those who came out to watch, hoping that those and others will support us during the rest of the season.