So: Where to start here? First, let me say how much I appreciate all of the incredibly kind comments that I received today. These came as a result of the announcement of me being named Interim Head Coach of the Junior National Team. I must say, I was very surprised, humbled and touched. I told the kids, in a private message last week, that when I was asked to take this position, upon Kelley Beane resigning, I said yes. Then, the ladies pro tour schedule came out and I completely panicked. The tour is really growing, a lot because of Tj Baumbaugh and Andy Kulback but also now Paola Longoria. We have a strong schedule this season, and it is an amazing time for Ladies Racquetball. Im in a very interesting time in my competitive career because I realize my competition days are most likely numbered. But I cant let it go. The people that know me best have said Im totally still capable. Kelley said I need to play, and, more importantly, that I can, and can do damage. Dont know if I believe her, honestly. I truly think that throughout my career, everyone has had more faith in my ability to play than Ive ever had in myself. And I have always appreciated that belief and support from my dearest friends and family. But even though I still want to play, I realized, after serious thought, and going to Junior Nationals in Denver, that I want to be with the kids and this great team..... And COACH!! And, I believe our staff can make a difference. Not only in racquetball, but in the lives of the kids beyond the game, which is always what Coach Kelley valued the most. And that was really her greatest quality: Her genuine concern for the well-being of all of the kids that weve ever had on the junior team over the last 15 years. That compassion and caring is what makes her not only the best coach on the planet, but the best friend on the planet too. So, I figured out a way to make this happen, and created a balance between competition and coaching. Im welcoming the opportunity to work with the kids at training camp July 29-3 and at the World Championships. Im looking forward to working with the coaches, Jen Myer, NickNick Montalbano JodyJody Nance miss Kelley and Shane Wood. I hope I can live up to all the generous, positive comments I was fortunate to receive today. I will not forget all of the support I have received, and WILL work hard to make sure that I deserved it. I have always performed better on the court when I know my supporters are waiting to hear my results. You all, that wrote in today, or messaged me, are the ones that I will NOT forget. I will work tirelessly so that I can look back and know that I earned your belief in me. I guess the only thing I probably forgot to mention, is that every team member will most likely be coming home with a stray dog from a shelter, or Colombia, some time before my term ends. Hope thats okay, parents! I think that was in the Team Handbook?;)
Posted on: Tue, 08 Jul 2014 05:01:32 +0000
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