Boys, thank you for doing a great job today. I was so impressed with how you handled playing well in a high-pressure situation. On one hand you were energetic and played with intensity, but on the other hand you played relaxed and clear-headed. I could give specific examples of this from all 8 flights if I wanted to, but here is just one example: Adam and Travis, you lost the 2nd set against Grandville. You had all of the momentum going against you, but you calmed yourselves, changed your game plan, and got the win. Not only did you beat the only team in the Region that you had yet to beat, but you grew as players. You now have experience winning under pressure. You have a greater understanding of doubles tactics. And finally, you have a few specific things to work on in practice that can make you even more dangerous on Thursday. Basically, you are only freshmen in name now. You are experienced players who can come through when it counts. Period. This is the kind of thing I saw happening everywhere on our team today.
Here are some other cool facts from the from:
Finally, I just wanted to say once more how much I appreciate all of you. Just because you win often doesn't mean it is easy. If anything it makes it tougher because it can add some pressure. Know that I am not taking for granted any of the things that you guys are doing. You guys are doing something special, and I love being able to watch you do it.
Ok, I'll see you at practice tomorrow, be ready to work hard!!!
Here are some other cool facts from the from:
- We got 6 of our 8 flights into the Finals, and ALL SIX flights won!
- Flight Champions were:
- 1st Singles - Nick Schnobel
- 2nd Singles - Mark VanderStoep
- 3rd Singles - Joe Miller
- 4th Singles - Tayler Bethke
- 1st Doubles - Nick Govert and Austin Barajas
- 4th Doubles - Travis Bethke and Tayler Bethke
- We went undefeated in singles throughout the tournament for the first time since 2008. It's also the most flights we've won at a conference tourney since 2008.
- Nick Schnobel is the first West Ottawa player since Ryne DuShane in 2009 to win the 1st Singles flight Championship. Whenever possible, I find that it's generally advantageous to have the best player be on your team:)
- Nick Schnobel, Tayler Bethke, Hugh Davis, Kyle Maas, Adam Dykens, and Travis Bethke all beat a player that they had lost to during the regular season.
- Results are posted under the results section if you want to see any specific scores.
Finally, I just wanted to say once more how much I appreciate all of you. Just because you win often doesn't mean it is easy. If anything it makes it tougher because it can add some pressure. Know that I am not taking for granted any of the things that you guys are doing. You guys are doing something special, and I love being able to watch you do it.
Ok, I'll see you at practice tomorrow, be ready to work hard!!!
