I have been quite busy, or uneventful, depending on how you want to look at it. It has been awhile since my last post. But I've been privileged to have this opportunity to move to Norman for a couple months to work at the National Weather Center and coach JV and Varsity Volleyball at Norman HS. The short season started this week as we begin with a tough schedule. I only started a few weeks ago, so I haven't had much time to help them get ready, but they are a great group of girls and have high hopes for the season.
Our first game last night was at Tulsa Union, the #3 ranked team in the state. After the adventure getting there on the bus, we got ready to play. Nerves were flowing, but everyone was excited for the first game of a new season. Although varsity lost.. handily.. they show promise. The highlight of the night for me was to see my JV girls come in and fight back after a nervous first game to dominate the final two games to beat Union JV! Lots more volleyball to play, but that was an big win to start off the season! Go Norman Tigers!!
Update: Both teams have been playing through a tough schedule the past few weeks and learning a lot. Varsity is 3-9 after dismantling their cross-town rivals (#11 Norman North) and all of their losses coming to teams ranked in the top 8 (currently undefeated at home and 2nd place in conference). JV has been consistently improving and holds an impressive 9-3 record thus far.
End of the year update: Varsity has been so close, although not receiving much respect from other coaches in the rankings. But I know who the lady Tigers are and how much they have accomplished this year. We play our last regular season game tonight at Norman North. Varsity holds a record of 11-17 with wins over Putnam City, PC North, Shawnee, and Norman North (all ranked teams) and haven't lost to any unranked team. Finished 2nd in conference with their only loss coming to Edmond Memorial (who we play in Regionals).
JV finished their season 18-6, with a second place finish in the Gold bracket at the Bishop Kelley tournament. We went undefeated in conference and competed well all season! I'm very proud of them.