USA IDQ #2

Well, we came out 5th overall, which was kind of disappointing, but at the same time, still a great finish! After a second place finish in the first International Development Qualifier (IDQ), Dana and I were really hoping to finish top 3 to clinch another spot in a NORCECA event where we would represent the USA. Unfortunately, we came up short of that goal, but we learned a lot over the weekend!

The main thing I learned??? Quit going to 3 games so that I'm not so tired on the second day of a tournament!!!!! :) On Saturday, we had pool play, so we played 3 matches. Two of which, we went to the 3 games, and most of those games were close ones! It took a lot of energy, but it was good to know that we could find a way to win even when we weren't playing our very best volleyball. The one match that we won in 2 games was still tough because the wind was pretty strong so it took a lot of concentration not to mention a lot of extra work physically to make sure we were taking care of the ball. We went 3-0 the first day, so, it was a good day at the office!

Sunday was a shorter day however. We won our first match (in 3 again!!!!). And, we could tell we were both a little tired after that match. We had a little bit of time to rest though, and we ate a little to get some fuel. The next team we played were the eventual champions! They were a great team all around and made us work for every single point we got! There were at least 20 rallies during the match that went back and forth over the net 5-6 times. (A normal rally may last 2-3 times over the net... maybe) Anyway, the problem was they ended up winning all of the long rallies, and the match...

My coach, Nancy Mason, was there though and was able to give me some good insight on what to work on! It was so great having her there because not only was she able to give me tips in between matches, but she is now able to build practice around specific things for me to work on!!

Next step in my volleyball life.... A STRENGTH COACH!! I went in and talked to the Level 10 Fitness people today... I should be starting in the next few days. Wish me luck!!!! :)

Did I mention the trainer at Level 10's nickname is "Mere-death" - haha