Many little victories for the 15U “Burgies” in Quebec(PHOTOS) By Sue Jones
November 8, 2008 — The 15U “Burgies” saw their first tournament play over the November 8-9 weekend at the Volleyball Québec Omnium 15 ans et moins in Sherbrooke. For most, it was their first ever club volleyball tournament. The day started with a quick breakfast at the hotel and a short drive to the Sherbrooke University.
The girls’ first match against Mousquetaires Noir saw a great deal of nervous jitters and excitement. The girls struggled a little to get their bearings with a 12-25 loss in the first set, but came back in the second with a good 18-25 finish. Not a win on the score sheet, but a victory against their nerves.
Match two saw the girls play against Impact de Durocher. They had a bit of a slow start with a 12-25 finish in the first set but came back stronger again in the second. They were leading by a few points at 10, but were not able to keep control of the game, which finished 16-25.
Match three was against Cyclones de Lachenaie. The girls had a little more to eat, watched the 15U Navy team and seemed to be a little more relaxed as they started this game. They were passing better and communicating more on the court. The first set of the match was their best of the day, so far. They were gaining confidence and playing well. Again, although they did not take a win here, they definitely felt better about how they played and were starting to see what they were capable of. They finished this match 19-25, 11-25.
The Burgies finished 4th in their pool and in crossover play came up against North Bay Flurry. The first game of the match was strong – the girls were ahead, but North Bay battled back to take the win, 18-25. In game two, the girls started strong and continued to push to a 25-17 win, forcing the match to a tiebreaker. Despite their efforts, the game finished 7-15 and the Burgies finished 10th (tied with Navy) for the weekend.
It was a fun trip with many “little victories”. It gave the girls a great opportunity to discover what they do well, where their great potential lies, and what they need to work on. Thanks to all the parents who came to Sherbrooke to cheer the girls on in their first tournament and to coaches Jessica and Irena for all their hard work in preparing the girls for these first events.
The will to win is important, but the will to prepare is vital. – Joe Paterno
