May 26, 2007
By David Kniffin (Head of Delegation)
This trip can be grueling. These fourteen young ladies are first class people and top level players. They are asked to represent both themselves and their country for one of the most exhaustive and rewarding ten day periods of their lives. I find myself compelled to write this entry as both recognition for those that are here, or have traveled this road before, and to offer insight to potential participants in the years to come. Everyday these girls wake up, not knowing exactly what will be in store. Everyday we travel to a new city, with a new set of fans, in a new gym. Bus
rides range from nine our odysseys through the night, to three hour jaunts on poor roads to small towns. They practice in the mornings and attend press conferences in the afternoons. They play each night against a handful of
players who have spent more time playing at the National Team Level than some of our girls have spent playing at any level in their entire lives. While our Argentinean counterparts remain well within their comfort zones, finding the balance between volleyball and international travel is a new concept for many Americans. Our bags are unpacked and then packed again almost before we hit the bed each night. The international warm-up, scoring, and Argentine culture is almost overwhelming.
Through it all, these girls persevere. They are learning to play as a team. And with the guidance of Charlie Wade (UOP) and Oscar Crespo (San Jose), they are beginning to figure out that what worked in college (whether
it was a defensive system, shot selection, or attitude), may not be the absolute for success at this level. With so much to absorb, the growth these girls experience will endure far beyond the tour itself. Tonight we depart for our third match in Noetinger, about a three hour bus ride. After the match we'll ride through most of the night to the
beautiful mountain town of Villa Carlos Paz. There we will all be able to experience a full day of rest and sightseeing before the final push (three exhibition matches remain), and our return to Buenos Aires and the United States.
Our bus drivers drinking Yerba Matte, a national pastime...
Link to Official Argentinean FEVA Page
