Last Day

I've been coaching High School volleyball for a few years now but my experience coaching one of Team Wisconsins two volleyball teams has been the best coaching experience of my life.  Don't get me wrong, I love coaching HS volleyball, but let's face it...we all know how teenagers can be.  I was able to coach an amazing group of men and women that don't take life for granted and live each day to it's fullest.  I was honored to have my picture taken with a great group of people that called me "Coach". 

So,  we beat Minnesota/Dakotas in the first round of pool play (25-11,  25-11).  Next up was Team St. Louis which was a little tougher team but we beat them to win our pool (25-19, 25-15).  After a short break, we had to play Illinois in the "Elite Eight".  We lost to them 25-18, 25-20.  We gave them a run for their money but just couldn't hold them.  I was told that is the farthest any of Team Wisconsin's volleyball teams had made it in the volleyball competition.  It had nothing to do with me or my coaching but everything to do with the team they put together and their ability. 

Tony and I headed home quickly to pick up my parents and the kids and get cleaned up before the Closing Ceremony.  We stopped at Olive Garden to eat and then headed to the Coliseum.  Closing ceremonies aren't as emotional as the Opening Ceremony.  Awards are handed out and usually, the city hosting the next Games is announced.  There were a lot of disappointed people leaving the Coliseum Tuesday night when they were not able to announce the next host city. 

While we were walking back to the van, Rece started crying.  He didn't want to leave.  None of us wanted to leave, but it always gives us something to look forward to in two years!  We met some new Team members and have forged new friendships.  We were grateful to have so many family and friends here to share this experience with us.  As soon as we know where the Games will be in 2012, we will post it here.  Thanks again to all for your continued love and support.  We couldn't do it without all of you!

Love to all,
Ant, Hill and the gang