Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Our "Family"

As is normal for our BD/USM Swim/Dive "Family"...we have another job to do.

We have a member of our "family" that has experienced a loss...in her own family. Kim Zwicke's mother passed away on Monday after a long battle with cancer. Kim, our hearts and prayers go out to you and those around you who are hurting right now. While we will respect your desire NOT to be bothered by all your well-wishers, we also want you to know you are loved and we are here for you IF you need us. There are many of us who stand ready to offer a hug, a shoulder to cry on, or simply and ear to listen. Kim, I believe God has eased your mothers burden, and eliminated her pain.

All my faithful blog-followers...love one another. Hug your parents, siblings, grandparents. None of us are invincible.

Just as we have done for so many others who have needed a helping hand...we are here to help.

Saturday, March 6, 2010

It's been long enough....

Welcome back Coach...we missed you. That's what you're thinking isn't it? Good....
First the facts....
1. Billy Wong swam in the State Meet this weekend at Schroeder. He performed really well. He now owns new PR's...100 BR at 1:04; 200 BR at 2:18; 200 Free at 1:54; 200 Free Relay split at 24.2.
2. Kimberly Roos is part of a state record setting 800 Free Relay.(1:59 split) She'll be joining us as a freshman in the fall.
3. Steve Lillie is getting back in the water on Monday.
4. USM will be bringing at least 3 new members to the BD/USM boys team next fall, all with some competitive exeprience...how about BD?

Now the opinions....
1. Billy did what he did because he has had a balance of long course training at Schroeder and sprint work with our BD/USM high school team.
2. Our program is not necessarily superior to Schreoder, nor theirs over ours. In my opinion the two programs are a wonderful blend of short course sprint work, and long course strength work. When possible, they should be used to compliment each other top make well rounded versitile athletes.
3. Billy has earned a rest...a break from the pool. My hope is he takes a break after this weekend.
4. Steve Lillie has the right idea. He is motivated. He is dedicated. He has an opportunity to lead this team to a place we haven't been before.
5. Steve and Billy can't do it alone. They need some help. Grambow? Ladd? Gilles? Short? Daniels? Davis? Rice? Murphy? Ferrell? Are you ready to get back at it?

We will need all systems firing if we want to get after that goal of a Conference Title, or Sectional title. Is it possible for us to take down the Mighty Whitefish Bay? Shorewood? Can we place higher than the fabled "8th at State" team from 3 years ago? Can we put an athlete in every event in Madison next Feb? Billy, Colin, and Steven G. are a good start...but that's not enough. You are capable. You are talented enough. Are you committed enough? That's for you to answer.

Girls...you're up next. August will come quickly. Will you be ready? What are you doing to prepare for the physical/mental/emotional challenges that lie ahead. 2010-2011 could really be a breakout year for this program. I believe in you...in your talent, in your leadership abilities, in your dedication to our sport, and in your committment to your future. BE READY!

Next year's theme is....
The BD/USM No Regrets Tour...don't miss the show.