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November 24, 2008 Garden City, N.Y. - Dear Fans, Alumni, Parents and Fellow Panthers, The season is finally over. Nearly three months of hard work, intense focus and utter commitment has culminated in our final loss. As strange as it might sound, we are fortunate to have the opportunity to end our season with a loss. I understand and accept the fact that to reach the post-season, both conference and collegiate, is an honor and a privilege. Many teams will end the season with little pomp and circumstance. When their conference schedule ends, so too does the team's dream of achieving its eventual goals. Through our work ethic, focus and commitment our girls earned the right to compete in post-season play. Even in the playoffs though, nobody enjoys losing. With the exception of the eventual NCAA champion, everyone's season ends with a loss. I've come to realize that it's not so much the loss that matters, but rather how that loss comes about. Had our season ended with our ECC semi-final loss to Bridgeport, I would have had a bitter taste in my mouth, regardless of our accomplishments to that point. I knew the Adelphi team that walked off that court after being swept in three straight sets was not the team that worked together all season long. With a shot at redemption in the NCAAs, I can walk away from this season feeling good. Granted, I will probably walk around with this pit in my stomach for the next few days (or weeks or months; say until next November), but it's not a feeling of disappointment. We battled Dowling tough. We showed a lot of heart. We played with a desire and intensity that was very much absent against Bridgeport. Every set was close and we continued to work even when a victory seemed out of reach. We never quit. The pit in my stomach is not because I'm angry. Had we been pummeled, I would be mad, but almost happy that the season was over. Now, I am only upset; mostly because I wish we had a few more opportunities; opportunities not only to win but opportunities also for these girls to be shining examples of what it means to be an Adelphi Panther. For the last three months I have immensely enjoyed witnessing the chemistry this team developed. Everyday (well, most days) we focused on achieving goals, and while some were not reached, many were, and those that were not will serve as lessons for seasons to come. These girls made me proud every time they stepped on the court...Thank you girls! Thank you to all of the fans, family and friends alike, who were along for this season! It was certainly enjoyable! Thank you also to the Adelphi staff for their support and commitment to our program. While volleyball might be over, continue to support our other great athletic teams as the winter season is well under way! I'll see you at some games! Until the Spring, Teamwork Makes the Dream Work, |
