So have you ever tried peanut butter and jelly flavored ice cream? No way that's any good. And what's up with all these multi-colored candy canes? I'm a sucker for the originals I guess. If I had a million dollars, I probably wouldn't spend too much of it, but one of the things I would buy is a slurpee machine, ever since I saw Happy Gilmore had one, I've been jealous.
True story, when I was 3 years old, I had made up my mind that when I grew up, I wanted to be a Ninja Turtle. I was set on that goal, maybe minus what color I would wear. Unfortunately for me, I'm still working on that one, and luckily for me, I've grown up a little over the years.
That may seem like random stuff, but that's the point of this whole blog, it's random stuff. I guess a lot of what I talk about is up to your interpretation as a reader, and that's fine. I made it pretty clear from day 1 that I never thought the things I talked about or any of my opinions mattered at all, even to the readers. I just share stuff on here, much of it I don't share all that often. People read it, for whatever reason, but they read it, and take what they want from it.
I've been through a lot of stuff in my life, and only I know my own story completely, just like you only know yours. I've always felt that every situation is different to every person. People say they know what it's like to lose a grandparent, but they don't know what it's like for you to lose your grandparent. There's a big difference. I don't pretend to know what anyone feels like or has been through, and I've always appreciated people who understand how to be that way.
When I say I've had a lot of great experiences in my life, I have, and only I know every single one of them. It's the same with the bad ones. I think a famous poem tells us that, "when you're up, you're up, and when you're down, you're down." At the end of the day, good or bad, you can always look in the mirror and remind yourself to work harder tomorrow because you can always get better. Everyone can always get better, I'm at the front of that line, I want to be at the front of it too.
I'm very open about the adversity I've faced in my life, real life, hard, difficult things, outside of work, relationships, basketball etc. I remember eating McDonald's for Christmas dinner when I was in grade school because that's the best we could do. I've been hurt, injured, a few times pretty badly. I've lost people I love, former teammates, people I looked up to, and even two fraternity brothers. So when I talk about adversity, it goes much much deeper than anyone knows. And when I talk about overcoming it, well I'm still here, and I appreciate being here and what I have a lot more because I went through it.
Me, I've failed in life often. I'm not the man I want to be, but I'm working on it. I'll never be the best, but I can always try. I've let people down and I've made the wrong choices, and I can't take that back. Sometimes I look at myself and wonder where I'm even going in life. But I've learned to be honest with myself, be my own biggest critic, take the losses, and work hard through the pain.
Speaking of losses, I figured Virginia Tech would win today but dang, that was a little bit bigger of a margin. It's been a couple years since I've seen either team play in person, which kind of sucks. But, I'd still say Tech just played pretty close to perfect football today, because I don't think UVA is a bad team at all.
The NBA lockout has finally come to an end it seems, and I'm glad to see that happen. I look forward to the Mavericks raising that banner, but I'm also happy that the thousands of people who rely financially on the NBA will hopefully be back at work. I know a lot of people that love basketball but don't like the NBA, and I understand their arguments. It's different than college ball, but I guess I've learned to enjoy it for what it is. The guys playing at that level are the best in the world in the game that I love, I know, I've played against a few.
Well that's it for a Saturday night, I'm off to practice my ping pong skills. But seriously, peanut butter and jelly ice cream?
-- Naitch
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Monday, November 21, 2011
Funny ways
"Well look there. God sure works in funny ways sometimes. Here we are talking about an opportunity and then one walks right in the door."
Those are words spoken to me just today by a very good man, a person I have a ton of respect for. Whenever I need advice, I seem to have a good pool of people to choose from. Today, I made a good choice. I'm very very blessed, and I may have just taken a step in the right direction. Either way, it's always a good day when you can spend any amount of time with someone you have so much respect and admiration for, and in the process, just spending time with that person makes you better.
As a young high school player, I was constantly reminded by one of the most influential people in my basketball life, Coach John "Sarge Siers, that there are a ton of people out there who have way more knowledge and experience in this sport than I could ever hope to gain. I've talked about Sarge before, and once again he was right. In everything I do, even unrelated to basketball, I value people who know more than me, and take to heart the things they share with me. I hope one day I earn that type of respect.
It's hard to believe it's Thanksgiving again, huh? Like so many families, one less person will be at dinner this year at our house, as I lost my final surviving grandparent last February. There's so much to be thankful for in life, but perhaps one thing a lot of us overlook is that we should be especially thankful for the people in our lives we love, because you never know when their chair will be the empty one. Just a thought.
I was shooting the ball really well when i began my workout this afternoon, but late in the workout, my mind wandered and I lost focus on my workout, and the ball stopped coming out of my hand well. Back in the day, I used to be able to block things out because I knew I loved playing basketball more than pretty much anything. Now that I'm older though, and no longer playing, the more serious things that occupy my thoughts can sneak in there at times. It happens with age I guess. Still, I had taken 3 days off from basketball to recycle and refresh, and overall, I was just so happy to be on the court today, so I spent even more than I have been lately.
Despite some special teams issues, the Cowboys pulled out a win over the Skins yesterday. Good to see us win a close game. We've lost too many of those the past couple years. Now if only the Cowboys could get everyone healthy, they'd be in an even better place.
Speaking of football, I didn't watch tonight's game, but watching the highlights, it looks like KC played a very good first half, but then the Patriots got a grip and conquered after half time.
Well, I guess we'll make it a short and sweet post tonight. I'm looking forward to what tomorrow brings, and I am working for one daily goal right now, simply to make something potentially good happen everyday. Why, "potentially good"? Because some things take time, but it's positive to get a process started, even if you have to wait and see.
Thank you God, for the work I'm allowed to do through your word.
-- Travis
Those are words spoken to me just today by a very good man, a person I have a ton of respect for. Whenever I need advice, I seem to have a good pool of people to choose from. Today, I made a good choice. I'm very very blessed, and I may have just taken a step in the right direction. Either way, it's always a good day when you can spend any amount of time with someone you have so much respect and admiration for, and in the process, just spending time with that person makes you better.
As a young high school player, I was constantly reminded by one of the most influential people in my basketball life, Coach John "Sarge Siers, that there are a ton of people out there who have way more knowledge and experience in this sport than I could ever hope to gain. I've talked about Sarge before, and once again he was right. In everything I do, even unrelated to basketball, I value people who know more than me, and take to heart the things they share with me. I hope one day I earn that type of respect.
It's hard to believe it's Thanksgiving again, huh? Like so many families, one less person will be at dinner this year at our house, as I lost my final surviving grandparent last February. There's so much to be thankful for in life, but perhaps one thing a lot of us overlook is that we should be especially thankful for the people in our lives we love, because you never know when their chair will be the empty one. Just a thought.
I was shooting the ball really well when i began my workout this afternoon, but late in the workout, my mind wandered and I lost focus on my workout, and the ball stopped coming out of my hand well. Back in the day, I used to be able to block things out because I knew I loved playing basketball more than pretty much anything. Now that I'm older though, and no longer playing, the more serious things that occupy my thoughts can sneak in there at times. It happens with age I guess. Still, I had taken 3 days off from basketball to recycle and refresh, and overall, I was just so happy to be on the court today, so I spent even more than I have been lately.
Despite some special teams issues, the Cowboys pulled out a win over the Skins yesterday. Good to see us win a close game. We've lost too many of those the past couple years. Now if only the Cowboys could get everyone healthy, they'd be in an even better place.
Speaking of football, I didn't watch tonight's game, but watching the highlights, it looks like KC played a very good first half, but then the Patriots got a grip and conquered after half time.
Well, I guess we'll make it a short and sweet post tonight. I'm looking forward to what tomorrow brings, and I am working for one daily goal right now, simply to make something potentially good happen everyday. Why, "potentially good"? Because some things take time, but it's positive to get a process started, even if you have to wait and see.
Thank you God, for the work I'm allowed to do through your word.
-- Travis
Sunday, November 20, 2011
I'm always here
One thing basketball has taught me, of the millions of things, is that the bond amongst a team is a great thing. The relationships you can build in this game can last longer than any one game.
Me, well basketball has taken me a lot of places, all over the country. I would have never been to these places without basketball. Also, I've met a ton of great people, who are good friends to me, because of this game.
As a coach, one thing I've always been pretty open about, is I will do anything for my players, and I value the relationships I have with my basketball family. I can vouch from personal experience, that I've played for coaches who some days maybe I would be mad at because they pushed me, but I always respected for it. Now, those coaches are some of my great friends, who I can call for anything. Trust me, I had a bad day of college practice or two, and I'd call Coach Hill (former Asst. Coach at Matoaca HS, now Asst. Coach at Petersburg), and he'd help me through it. As a coach, if you can build relationships like that, you've done your job. I've always aimed to be there for my players just like Coach Hill, and others, have been there for me. By the way, Coach Hill never took a day off when it came to getting after us in practice, and I was a tougher person and player because of it. I used to come home and be so mad, and then once I thought about it, Coach Hill was always right. Love you, Coach.
So, just to clarify and make it known, I'm always going to be here, one call away for my basketball family. I am a man of my word, and plan on following through on promises I made to always be there to help out whoever with whatever. Why? Because basketball is 24/7, 365, here before you were born, be there after you die, CONSTANT. Therefore, if you love it, you are also all about it, everyday, all year long. There are obstacles and road blocks, but again, it always go back to a simple concept of teams working together, setting goals, building relationships, and attempting to put that ball through the hoop a few more times than the other guys. Through whatever challenges, all the other "stuff", it goes right back to simple concepts. It's a beautiful game, all day every day.
So what's my deal? I've been pretty basketball heavy the past 2 weeks or so here. Let's go to the change up...
Awesome weekend. I haven't been able to say that in a while, huh? Well after getting off work at 1 Friday, I took a power nap, hit the gym, and then took off for Newport News to visit my best friend and one of my former baseball teammates who live down there. I could do this because, I actually had a Saturday off of work! For me, that's huge. Friday night was excellent. I got back to town Saturday morning for my good friend/fraternity brother/former high school volleyball teammate's wedding to his long time sweetheart, also a friend from high school. The awesome part about this wedding, aside from seeing their true love on display, was getting to see not only brothers I don't see too much anymore, but also old friends from high school. It was a great time, I was so happy to see everyone. I followed it up last night here in Richmond with some of those same brothers, taking them to some of my favorite spots in the city. Just a great way to end a great couple of days with great people.
So what did I get out of this? Most people look for an escape when they go through tough times. I'm blessed to have hundreds of brothers and friends in my life, and I'm even more blessed to be able to keep making memories with them. I was reminded this weekend of a lot of things. My best friend said it best, when he reminded me that I am one of the most positive, motivated, self-confident people anyone has ever met. That means a lot coming from him, but he's right. That is who I am. I've built myself around certain values and morals, and those are a few of them.
I'm proud of where I've been and who I am. I say this with the utmost confidence, I do a damn good job at a lot of things. It's not an accident. I'm better because I work harder. I don't turn and run from weaknesses, I attack them. I have a ton of people in my life who know me well, and are always there for me. There are also a ton of people who play the heel to who I am, and want to see me fail. That's life. But I say, who cares about those "trolls" (Charlie Sheen reference)? Thanks for the motivation.
So, remember, I'm always here for anyone that needs me for anything. That's the right thing to do. I value the positive things in my life, even after losing some of them along the way. If you know me, you know that about me.
The beat goes on, I just decided to turn it up a little more.
--TP
Me, well basketball has taken me a lot of places, all over the country. I would have never been to these places without basketball. Also, I've met a ton of great people, who are good friends to me, because of this game.
As a coach, one thing I've always been pretty open about, is I will do anything for my players, and I value the relationships I have with my basketball family. I can vouch from personal experience, that I've played for coaches who some days maybe I would be mad at because they pushed me, but I always respected for it. Now, those coaches are some of my great friends, who I can call for anything. Trust me, I had a bad day of college practice or two, and I'd call Coach Hill (former Asst. Coach at Matoaca HS, now Asst. Coach at Petersburg), and he'd help me through it. As a coach, if you can build relationships like that, you've done your job. I've always aimed to be there for my players just like Coach Hill, and others, have been there for me. By the way, Coach Hill never took a day off when it came to getting after us in practice, and I was a tougher person and player because of it. I used to come home and be so mad, and then once I thought about it, Coach Hill was always right. Love you, Coach.
So, just to clarify and make it known, I'm always going to be here, one call away for my basketball family. I am a man of my word, and plan on following through on promises I made to always be there to help out whoever with whatever. Why? Because basketball is 24/7, 365, here before you were born, be there after you die, CONSTANT. Therefore, if you love it, you are also all about it, everyday, all year long. There are obstacles and road blocks, but again, it always go back to a simple concept of teams working together, setting goals, building relationships, and attempting to put that ball through the hoop a few more times than the other guys. Through whatever challenges, all the other "stuff", it goes right back to simple concepts. It's a beautiful game, all day every day.
So what's my deal? I've been pretty basketball heavy the past 2 weeks or so here. Let's go to the change up...
Awesome weekend. I haven't been able to say that in a while, huh? Well after getting off work at 1 Friday, I took a power nap, hit the gym, and then took off for Newport News to visit my best friend and one of my former baseball teammates who live down there. I could do this because, I actually had a Saturday off of work! For me, that's huge. Friday night was excellent. I got back to town Saturday morning for my good friend/fraternity brother/former high school volleyball teammate's wedding to his long time sweetheart, also a friend from high school. The awesome part about this wedding, aside from seeing their true love on display, was getting to see not only brothers I don't see too much anymore, but also old friends from high school. It was a great time, I was so happy to see everyone. I followed it up last night here in Richmond with some of those same brothers, taking them to some of my favorite spots in the city. Just a great way to end a great couple of days with great people.
So what did I get out of this? Most people look for an escape when they go through tough times. I'm blessed to have hundreds of brothers and friends in my life, and I'm even more blessed to be able to keep making memories with them. I was reminded this weekend of a lot of things. My best friend said it best, when he reminded me that I am one of the most positive, motivated, self-confident people anyone has ever met. That means a lot coming from him, but he's right. That is who I am. I've built myself around certain values and morals, and those are a few of them.
I'm proud of where I've been and who I am. I say this with the utmost confidence, I do a damn good job at a lot of things. It's not an accident. I'm better because I work harder. I don't turn and run from weaknesses, I attack them. I have a ton of people in my life who know me well, and are always there for me. There are also a ton of people who play the heel to who I am, and want to see me fail. That's life. But I say, who cares about those "trolls" (Charlie Sheen reference)? Thanks for the motivation.
So, remember, I'm always here for anyone that needs me for anything. That's the right thing to do. I value the positive things in my life, even after losing some of them along the way. If you know me, you know that about me.
The beat goes on, I just decided to turn it up a little more.
--TP
Thursday, November 17, 2011
It's never wrong to do the right thing...
The subject says it all. Wow, what a turbulent, difficult few days it's been in my life. I'm very blessed to have a tight group around me that has propped me up the past few days. I appreciate all of the support.
About that subject, I am not the type that talks a lot. I let my body of work speak for itself. I'm not going to be critical or negative, not my style. I honestly believe each of the 100+ hours I've put in over the past 6 months with the girls are hours well spent. If I had to go back, I wouldn't do it any other way. I gave it all that I had, often times on my own, and did it the right way. I'd like to think that those girls are better basketball players and better people because of the sport of basketball, and I'm just happy to have shared in that. I love all of my players, going back to the first time I coached kids at the YMCA when I was 15 years old, and I will always be there for them. I know they all work hard, and if they continue to do that, they will always be able to accomplish their goals.
So how did I spend my day? Well I had a very cold wake up call (literally) at 8:30 am, and for obvious reasons, couldn't fall back to sleep afterward. So, I went to lunch with my mom, spent the afternoon watching a college team practice (so enjoyable as always), and then I worked out. One of the proudest things I did today though had nothing to do with any of that...
I donated money to charity today. I have had one of the worst stretches I've had in a while, losing something I love so suddenly, all capped off this morning with a bang. I lost out on one of the salaries I rely on to make ends meet. So on a bad day where I lost so much, why did I go out of my way to do something for someone else? Don't I have my own problems to deal with? Well, I'll tell you, I believe I'm very blessed. No matter how bad of a day I may be having, I've seen worse, and I'm still blessed. There are so many people out there who are not as fortunate. So, on a day when people have said to take care of myself, I took a small step to help others. Why? Because it's the right thing to do.
When I have the chance to testify about how great God has been to me, this is one of the days I will speak of. Always rise, and rise again, be considerate of others, and remember that it's never wrong to do things the right way.
Stay classy,
--TP
About that subject, I am not the type that talks a lot. I let my body of work speak for itself. I'm not going to be critical or negative, not my style. I honestly believe each of the 100+ hours I've put in over the past 6 months with the girls are hours well spent. If I had to go back, I wouldn't do it any other way. I gave it all that I had, often times on my own, and did it the right way. I'd like to think that those girls are better basketball players and better people because of the sport of basketball, and I'm just happy to have shared in that. I love all of my players, going back to the first time I coached kids at the YMCA when I was 15 years old, and I will always be there for them. I know they all work hard, and if they continue to do that, they will always be able to accomplish their goals.
So how did I spend my day? Well I had a very cold wake up call (literally) at 8:30 am, and for obvious reasons, couldn't fall back to sleep afterward. So, I went to lunch with my mom, spent the afternoon watching a college team practice (so enjoyable as always), and then I worked out. One of the proudest things I did today though had nothing to do with any of that...
I donated money to charity today. I have had one of the worst stretches I've had in a while, losing something I love so suddenly, all capped off this morning with a bang. I lost out on one of the salaries I rely on to make ends meet. So on a bad day where I lost so much, why did I go out of my way to do something for someone else? Don't I have my own problems to deal with? Well, I'll tell you, I believe I'm very blessed. No matter how bad of a day I may be having, I've seen worse, and I'm still blessed. There are so many people out there who are not as fortunate. So, on a day when people have said to take care of myself, I took a small step to help others. Why? Because it's the right thing to do.
When I have the chance to testify about how great God has been to me, this is one of the days I will speak of. Always rise, and rise again, be considerate of others, and remember that it's never wrong to do things the right way.
Stay classy,
--TP
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Today's not that day...
Even on the bad days, and trust me, today has been a really bad day, you have to take a step back and realize that you are where you are right now because that's where God wants you to be.
One thing about me, I'm always the same, no matter what. I strive to give more than is asked of me, and overachieve. What are expectations anyway? To me, expectations ALWAYS are just a glass ceiling waiting to be broken through, a challenge in which someone is daring you to exceed them. I'm a pretty simple person. I work hard, love basketball, love working out, and give everything I have to becoming a better journalist and coach. I love my friends and brothers, and when I do have free time, I go out and enjoy it. That's all pretty surface stuff.
I have my faults, but often times those aren't the faults I get attacked for. I realize that the Bible encourages us to be perfect, even as God Himself is, and yet we have to realize we will never ever be perfect. So, instead I'm hard on myself, and focus on how I can get better and how I've failed, instead of how much I've succeeded.
Today, yeah I got hurt. But you know what, I don't get up with the expectation that sometimes I'll get knocked down. Basketball has taught me this life lesson many times. On days like this, I just go to the court, back to what I know best, the game that's always been there for me. I've given basketball my blood, sweat and tears many times over, and God willing, I'll give a lot more. It won't ever be enough for what basketball has given me.
A strong willed person has to welcome the bad days and overcome. That's part of growing up and learning. I've often heard that only you can make your own day a bad one. They say the only way something could happen and bring you down is when you let it. This is true 90% of the time, but sometimes, stuff happens that is above your realm of control.
One day, I think I'll be everything God wanted me to be. That day is not today, but it will be because of today that I will get there.
One thing about me, I'm always the same, no matter what. I strive to give more than is asked of me, and overachieve. What are expectations anyway? To me, expectations ALWAYS are just a glass ceiling waiting to be broken through, a challenge in which someone is daring you to exceed them. I'm a pretty simple person. I work hard, love basketball, love working out, and give everything I have to becoming a better journalist and coach. I love my friends and brothers, and when I do have free time, I go out and enjoy it. That's all pretty surface stuff.
I have my faults, but often times those aren't the faults I get attacked for. I realize that the Bible encourages us to be perfect, even as God Himself is, and yet we have to realize we will never ever be perfect. So, instead I'm hard on myself, and focus on how I can get better and how I've failed, instead of how much I've succeeded.
Today, yeah I got hurt. But you know what, I don't get up with the expectation that sometimes I'll get knocked down. Basketball has taught me this life lesson many times. On days like this, I just go to the court, back to what I know best, the game that's always been there for me. I've given basketball my blood, sweat and tears many times over, and God willing, I'll give a lot more. It won't ever be enough for what basketball has given me.
A strong willed person has to welcome the bad days and overcome. That's part of growing up and learning. I've often heard that only you can make your own day a bad one. They say the only way something could happen and bring you down is when you let it. This is true 90% of the time, but sometimes, stuff happens that is above your realm of control.
One day, I think I'll be everything God wanted me to be. That day is not today, but it will be because of today that I will get there.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Ok so I'll be honest, I opted to push today's workout to tomorrow night for two reasons, to ice down a sore limb or two, and to watch UNC-Michigan St. play on deck of an aircraft carrier. How could you miss this (unless of course you are at work or have your own game to deal with)? I could only imagine how different that feels, but how rewarding it is at the same time. I've played against UNC, which is definitely a cool experience in and of itself, but this is cool. It would be awesome if this becomes a yearly occurrence, and even spread to the women's game as well.
Speaking of college basketball, I want to shout out one of our former Cosby players, Kelsey Conyers, for making her college debut as Virginia Tech got the win at ODU tonight. I've mentioned before, all of us in the Cosby basketball family are proud of Kelsey, and I have a feeling tonight's game is the first of bigger things to come. Congratulations to her, the Conyers family, and the VT women's basketball program. Good stuff all around.
Interestingly enough, my first college game was an exhibition at ODU my freshman year. I was inactive, on the bench in street clothes. That's the breaks of college ball sometimes, but still a cool experience. That's a great facility down there, and looking up at the big screen and seeing yourself, even sitting on the bench, is surreal. It makes all the hard work worth it. I won't ever forget that night, I was truly blessed to have been a part of that experience.
This year, I've committed to give even more of myself to our basketball program at Cosby. Our coaches and players work so hard, and I'm just following suit, trying to go the extra mile. One way I'm doing this is by staying after our Varsity practices to help out at the JV practices. Last year, I didn't make many of them, so this year I want to make as many as possible. I've been to all of them so far. There's likely no way I can maintain that pace, but I'm going to try. Coach Ox, Coach Leonard (who volunteers by the way), and our JV team are all working hard and poised for success. I am challenging myself in other ways as well to help all of our girls, JV and Varsity, get better and accomplish their goals as well. It's a pleasure to work with such great coaches, and under one of the best, Coach Mead.
People have been asking me my opinion on Joe Paterno and the Penn St. situation. Again, I don't think my opinion matters much, but I will say I agree it's a sad situation that has affected so many people, all over the country. I have a feeling more people may be exposed to have some sort of involvement in how the whole thing went down. It's too early to even say anything. It's a developing story, with new twists and turns everyday. Several analysts have said, there's no way Penn St. could let Paterno go out and coach this weekend, be touted as a hero, and run the risk of that later coming back to bite them as the facts continue to unfold. I totally see that side of the story. Also, I'd hate to be one of the coaches who is likely to be let go once the season ends as the school attempts to clean house and start anew. There are probably coaches and staff in that department who work extremely hard, and had no knowledge or participation in anything other than their jobs, who could be without a job soon. Sad story, we'll see what happens next.
This is just another example though, of wrong doing in a college athletic program. Sure it's worse than the dirty money, rule breaking, etc., but still, the games that so many love are used and abused by people who go about it the wrong way, breaking rules and laws along the way. I've played at the college level, and seen first hand some of the bad stuff that happens at times. It's taught me to always value the game and go about it the right way. Breaking the rules, lying to players, using players, not valuing their health and education, and so much more of that stuff is all bad. Now you have the Penn St. situation that takes it to a whole other level. I always say sometimes it's easy to do the wrong thing, but you should always strive to do what's right, no matter what. I really enjoy meeting coaches who go about their work the right way. That's the place I want to be. I hope an effort is made to highlight those who love the game they coach, the players that work hard for them, and their efforts to do things the right way. They should be applauded.
I'd be remiss to not thank all of our veterans on this holiday. Like so many, I have veterans in my family, and I also have fraternity brothers who have served and are still serving right now as we speak. I love all of you guys, and hope that one day I can use basketball in a way to pay even greater tribute to all those that serve.
That takes me back to tonight's game. It's over, UNC wins, but like Dicky V said, it's a great night for basketball and America regardless. I enjoyed watching it, and yes, I did take some notes on stuff I saw, some of you know me too well. Add playing and/or coaching on the deck of an aircraft carrier to the bucket list.
That's all I got, time to chill out and it's back to CBS 6 in the morning. Thanks for reading.
-- Travis
Speaking of college basketball, I want to shout out one of our former Cosby players, Kelsey Conyers, for making her college debut as Virginia Tech got the win at ODU tonight. I've mentioned before, all of us in the Cosby basketball family are proud of Kelsey, and I have a feeling tonight's game is the first of bigger things to come. Congratulations to her, the Conyers family, and the VT women's basketball program. Good stuff all around.
Interestingly enough, my first college game was an exhibition at ODU my freshman year. I was inactive, on the bench in street clothes. That's the breaks of college ball sometimes, but still a cool experience. That's a great facility down there, and looking up at the big screen and seeing yourself, even sitting on the bench, is surreal. It makes all the hard work worth it. I won't ever forget that night, I was truly blessed to have been a part of that experience.
This year, I've committed to give even more of myself to our basketball program at Cosby. Our coaches and players work so hard, and I'm just following suit, trying to go the extra mile. One way I'm doing this is by staying after our Varsity practices to help out at the JV practices. Last year, I didn't make many of them, so this year I want to make as many as possible. I've been to all of them so far. There's likely no way I can maintain that pace, but I'm going to try. Coach Ox, Coach Leonard (who volunteers by the way), and our JV team are all working hard and poised for success. I am challenging myself in other ways as well to help all of our girls, JV and Varsity, get better and accomplish their goals as well. It's a pleasure to work with such great coaches, and under one of the best, Coach Mead.
People have been asking me my opinion on Joe Paterno and the Penn St. situation. Again, I don't think my opinion matters much, but I will say I agree it's a sad situation that has affected so many people, all over the country. I have a feeling more people may be exposed to have some sort of involvement in how the whole thing went down. It's too early to even say anything. It's a developing story, with new twists and turns everyday. Several analysts have said, there's no way Penn St. could let Paterno go out and coach this weekend, be touted as a hero, and run the risk of that later coming back to bite them as the facts continue to unfold. I totally see that side of the story. Also, I'd hate to be one of the coaches who is likely to be let go once the season ends as the school attempts to clean house and start anew. There are probably coaches and staff in that department who work extremely hard, and had no knowledge or participation in anything other than their jobs, who could be without a job soon. Sad story, we'll see what happens next.
This is just another example though, of wrong doing in a college athletic program. Sure it's worse than the dirty money, rule breaking, etc., but still, the games that so many love are used and abused by people who go about it the wrong way, breaking rules and laws along the way. I've played at the college level, and seen first hand some of the bad stuff that happens at times. It's taught me to always value the game and go about it the right way. Breaking the rules, lying to players, using players, not valuing their health and education, and so much more of that stuff is all bad. Now you have the Penn St. situation that takes it to a whole other level. I always say sometimes it's easy to do the wrong thing, but you should always strive to do what's right, no matter what. I really enjoy meeting coaches who go about their work the right way. That's the place I want to be. I hope an effort is made to highlight those who love the game they coach, the players that work hard for them, and their efforts to do things the right way. They should be applauded.
I'd be remiss to not thank all of our veterans on this holiday. Like so many, I have veterans in my family, and I also have fraternity brothers who have served and are still serving right now as we speak. I love all of you guys, and hope that one day I can use basketball in a way to pay even greater tribute to all those that serve.
That takes me back to tonight's game. It's over, UNC wins, but like Dicky V said, it's a great night for basketball and America regardless. I enjoyed watching it, and yes, I did take some notes on stuff I saw, some of you know me too well. Add playing and/or coaching on the deck of an aircraft carrier to the bucket list.
That's all I got, time to chill out and it's back to CBS 6 in the morning. Thanks for reading.
-- Travis
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Walk the walk
How many times have you heard someone say something and it leaves you scratching your head? Or how many times have you heard a person (for example Rob Ryan) make a claim vocally and not be able to back it up (loss to the Eagles). These situations are grouped in with a very valid label, those who talk the talk, but don't walk the walk.
Me, I've always been a walker, and hardly ever been a talker. I believe that the walking is the most important thing. Despite our rocky relationship, I remember one thing my father taught me when I was coming up through middle school and high school and having success. He told me, let the people do the talking for you. Don't ever blow your own horn, if you earn praise, and walk the walk, then the talk will come.
This time of year, we hear a lot of people talk about how they love basketball, and are so excited for their season, etc., etc. First of all, it bugs me to hear that because if you really love basketball, it doesn't matter what time of year it is, and you're always excited to be on a court. Secondly, it's easy to say you're excited for something, but then not prove it when it gets around to happening. It's a small thing, but something we all should be weary of, because I think we're all guilty at some point.
I don't think there's a problem with making a bold statement. We've all made them. I've played in plenty of huge games and talked a little crap before, if you're a competitor, it happens. That's the passion seeping through. But, don't make a habit of it. When you do talk, you have to back it up in the way you walk. Better yet, don't talk about doing something, go out and do it.
When something's weighing heavy on your heart and mind, it's a huge drag. I've had a huge dark cloud, elephant in the room, whatever you want to call it hanging over my head lately. I keep thinking it's going to go away, but I guess they never do. Sometimes you have to face these things head on, learn from them, and get better. It's a challenge I've issued myself, to deal with it tomorrow.
I don't really delve into the political realm very much, but one thing bugs me. We all talk about the U.S. Government needing to lower the deficit and make cuts right now. The problem is, as soon as the government tries to cut anything, we see all of these propaganda commercials and what not that are paid for by lobbyist groups who have special interests in these areas. It's frustrating that lobbyists and corporations have so much control in this country that they can dictate how our lawmakers vote and act. Sadly enough, the same type of propaganda is spread to dissuade Americans that certain laws created to help them are bad for them, when actually they aren't. I don't get it, but I guess I don't have to.
Closing this post, I'm so happy to be a part of the Cosby Girls Basketball family. We have 28 girls in our program this year, with a good number of new faces. Those players, and the people I have the privilege to coach with mean so much to me. Our program really is a family, full of unique, hard working people that come together to make something great. This winter is going to be another great one, thanks to them.
Time to hit the gym. Thanks for reading. Follow me on twitter, and.... keep walking.
-- TP
Me, I've always been a walker, and hardly ever been a talker. I believe that the walking is the most important thing. Despite our rocky relationship, I remember one thing my father taught me when I was coming up through middle school and high school and having success. He told me, let the people do the talking for you. Don't ever blow your own horn, if you earn praise, and walk the walk, then the talk will come.
This time of year, we hear a lot of people talk about how they love basketball, and are so excited for their season, etc., etc. First of all, it bugs me to hear that because if you really love basketball, it doesn't matter what time of year it is, and you're always excited to be on a court. Secondly, it's easy to say you're excited for something, but then not prove it when it gets around to happening. It's a small thing, but something we all should be weary of, because I think we're all guilty at some point.
I don't think there's a problem with making a bold statement. We've all made them. I've played in plenty of huge games and talked a little crap before, if you're a competitor, it happens. That's the passion seeping through. But, don't make a habit of it. When you do talk, you have to back it up in the way you walk. Better yet, don't talk about doing something, go out and do it.
When something's weighing heavy on your heart and mind, it's a huge drag. I've had a huge dark cloud, elephant in the room, whatever you want to call it hanging over my head lately. I keep thinking it's going to go away, but I guess they never do. Sometimes you have to face these things head on, learn from them, and get better. It's a challenge I've issued myself, to deal with it tomorrow.
I don't really delve into the political realm very much, but one thing bugs me. We all talk about the U.S. Government needing to lower the deficit and make cuts right now. The problem is, as soon as the government tries to cut anything, we see all of these propaganda commercials and what not that are paid for by lobbyist groups who have special interests in these areas. It's frustrating that lobbyists and corporations have so much control in this country that they can dictate how our lawmakers vote and act. Sadly enough, the same type of propaganda is spread to dissuade Americans that certain laws created to help them are bad for them, when actually they aren't. I don't get it, but I guess I don't have to.
Closing this post, I'm so happy to be a part of the Cosby Girls Basketball family. We have 28 girls in our program this year, with a good number of new faces. Those players, and the people I have the privilege to coach with mean so much to me. Our program really is a family, full of unique, hard working people that come together to make something great. This winter is going to be another great one, thanks to them.
Time to hit the gym. Thanks for reading. Follow me on twitter, and.... keep walking.
-- TP
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Brigning the noise
If you love basketball, and love being a part of a basketball team, then like me, you LIVE for days like tomorrow. Tomorrow is a holiday, the first day of practice.
I'll admit, I remember how I felt about going into any try out as a player, and it's one of those things that's a lot different on the other side, as a coach. But either way, as a person who loves this game, you embrace the season, live for it, roll up your sleeves and get to work.
No matter if you're a player or a coach, wherever you play, at whatever level, day 1 is the day you get to work. No team should ever be the same on the last day of season as they are on the first day, but I'm a firm believer that from the first day of practice, you can get better, as an individual and as a team. One of my goals this season as a coach is to do everything I can to help our team get something out of every practice, and get better. It starts with the coaches. If you go in with the energy and a good plan, then your players will feed off that. Good habits are contagious. That's one of my favorite concepts that I preach to our girls all the time.
In all likely hood, tomorrow morning's 7am practice will fly by, and I'll wonder where it went. Sure, decisions about roster spots and the like will have to be made this week, but that's a whole other story for another day. Tomorrow, up before the sun, I have one goal for myself, and one challenge for our players- Bring the Noise.
OK I know that's cliche, but there's a deeper meaning to the word noise for us at Cosby. One of my huge points of emphasis in the preseason was for us to bring the energy, intensity, passion, and effort every single day we're on the court. Noise not only refers to doing big things, but opening your mouth, supporting your teammates, and just bringing a high level along with your best every time out, for the team. If you watch big time D1 programs go, there's a certain aura, a certain energy to it. Those players who have made it to that level are good for a reason. People can say they love the game, but then their talking stops when it's go time. Good is good for a reason.
Thinking back to the days and months of anticipation for what I get to do tomorrow, work with a coaching staff and our players, it's all coming full circle. I have passed on full time jobs in order to keep coaching, and people may question it, but none of that matters, because days like tomorrow, are days that I live for. Being part of a team, something bigger than yourself, makes life worth while.
And tomorrow, I plan on bringing the noise....
Go Titans!
-- TP
I'll admit, I remember how I felt about going into any try out as a player, and it's one of those things that's a lot different on the other side, as a coach. But either way, as a person who loves this game, you embrace the season, live for it, roll up your sleeves and get to work.
No matter if you're a player or a coach, wherever you play, at whatever level, day 1 is the day you get to work. No team should ever be the same on the last day of season as they are on the first day, but I'm a firm believer that from the first day of practice, you can get better, as an individual and as a team. One of my goals this season as a coach is to do everything I can to help our team get something out of every practice, and get better. It starts with the coaches. If you go in with the energy and a good plan, then your players will feed off that. Good habits are contagious. That's one of my favorite concepts that I preach to our girls all the time.
In all likely hood, tomorrow morning's 7am practice will fly by, and I'll wonder where it went. Sure, decisions about roster spots and the like will have to be made this week, but that's a whole other story for another day. Tomorrow, up before the sun, I have one goal for myself, and one challenge for our players- Bring the Noise.
OK I know that's cliche, but there's a deeper meaning to the word noise for us at Cosby. One of my huge points of emphasis in the preseason was for us to bring the energy, intensity, passion, and effort every single day we're on the court. Noise not only refers to doing big things, but opening your mouth, supporting your teammates, and just bringing a high level along with your best every time out, for the team. If you watch big time D1 programs go, there's a certain aura, a certain energy to it. Those players who have made it to that level are good for a reason. People can say they love the game, but then their talking stops when it's go time. Good is good for a reason.
Thinking back to the days and months of anticipation for what I get to do tomorrow, work with a coaching staff and our players, it's all coming full circle. I have passed on full time jobs in order to keep coaching, and people may question it, but none of that matters, because days like tomorrow, are days that I live for. Being part of a team, something bigger than yourself, makes life worth while.
And tomorrow, I plan on bringing the noise....
Go Titans!
-- TP
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
More reps...
Have you ever done something, knowing that as you go into it, you're going to fail?
It's a rough feeling, and no matter how prepared you are for a possible failure, it still hurts.
I walked into such a situation today, professionally. Now, I'm still trying to pick myself up. I feel right now like all of the confidence and progress that had been built up has taken a hit. More or less, I'm down in the dumps. It sucks.
It may be a cliche topic, but still one worth visiting. I'm not going to lie, it's going to take a while to get back up, but they always say it's how you bounce back that matters most. I'm here to tell you, failing sucks. My greatest fear in this world is failure, and it brings me down every time it knocks me down.
Sometimes, you're in a situation that is designed for you to fail. You can fail by succeeding. I may be in that situation right now. But is it best to totally avoid failure and not take a chance that you may open a door and meet it again?
Today, I got some positive feedback, a ton of fair, professional criticism, and two types of challenges. The first type of challenge was the surface, verbal challenge. My boss challenged me to simply get more reps. Well, I say simply but there's nothing easy about it. I spend a ton of time up there while I'm on the clock, and a fair amount of my own time up there. He wants more. I don't know where I'm going to find more, with all of my other jobs and commitments, but there's the challenge, get more reps.
I can take this into basketball terms, sometimes an athlete needs more reps, more practice. Whether in an offensive scheme, or on a particular skill, or whatever. To get better, a player needs more reps, and a lot of those reps have to come on your own time. I get it.
Then, there's the second type of challenge. It's subliminal, it's part of growing as a journalist, and it's necessary for success. That challenge is, how do you deal with failure? How do you get back up?
Honestly, I've been down all afternoon. I went to the one place that I can always go, the basketball court. I forgot about how bad I felt, but I won't lie, I was at times very average today as a player. I had my good spots and great plays, but the lack of confidence crept in at times to, and led to missed shots, lack of aggression, and other things. I even got busted open by and elbow to the mouth, and that wasn't even enough to get me fully into it.
At the end of the day, we all need more reps. It's no secret that to be good at something, you have to put the time into it. Sometimes, we feel like we do this, but we really aren't. I'm here to tell you that failure sucks. This isn't the first time I've met it head on, and it won't be the last. It's o.k. to if it bugs you and takes you down for a little bit, but at some point, you get over it. Maybe I just needed to hear that from myself.
Life's a roller coaster, it's cliche but it's true. Enjoy the highs, hate the lows, but as long as you're still feeling, I guess you're making progress. I'm thankful for failure, take the blame on myself, and now I have to do something about it. And it sucks. I've been through worse, so now it's time to get more reps.
It's a rough feeling, and no matter how prepared you are for a possible failure, it still hurts.
I walked into such a situation today, professionally. Now, I'm still trying to pick myself up. I feel right now like all of the confidence and progress that had been built up has taken a hit. More or less, I'm down in the dumps. It sucks.
It may be a cliche topic, but still one worth visiting. I'm not going to lie, it's going to take a while to get back up, but they always say it's how you bounce back that matters most. I'm here to tell you, failing sucks. My greatest fear in this world is failure, and it brings me down every time it knocks me down.
Sometimes, you're in a situation that is designed for you to fail. You can fail by succeeding. I may be in that situation right now. But is it best to totally avoid failure and not take a chance that you may open a door and meet it again?
Today, I got some positive feedback, a ton of fair, professional criticism, and two types of challenges. The first type of challenge was the surface, verbal challenge. My boss challenged me to simply get more reps. Well, I say simply but there's nothing easy about it. I spend a ton of time up there while I'm on the clock, and a fair amount of my own time up there. He wants more. I don't know where I'm going to find more, with all of my other jobs and commitments, but there's the challenge, get more reps.
I can take this into basketball terms, sometimes an athlete needs more reps, more practice. Whether in an offensive scheme, or on a particular skill, or whatever. To get better, a player needs more reps, and a lot of those reps have to come on your own time. I get it.
Then, there's the second type of challenge. It's subliminal, it's part of growing as a journalist, and it's necessary for success. That challenge is, how do you deal with failure? How do you get back up?
Honestly, I've been down all afternoon. I went to the one place that I can always go, the basketball court. I forgot about how bad I felt, but I won't lie, I was at times very average today as a player. I had my good spots and great plays, but the lack of confidence crept in at times to, and led to missed shots, lack of aggression, and other things. I even got busted open by and elbow to the mouth, and that wasn't even enough to get me fully into it.
At the end of the day, we all need more reps. It's no secret that to be good at something, you have to put the time into it. Sometimes, we feel like we do this, but we really aren't. I'm here to tell you that failure sucks. This isn't the first time I've met it head on, and it won't be the last. It's o.k. to if it bugs you and takes you down for a little bit, but at some point, you get over it. Maybe I just needed to hear that from myself.
Life's a roller coaster, it's cliche but it's true. Enjoy the highs, hate the lows, but as long as you're still feeling, I guess you're making progress. I'm thankful for failure, take the blame on myself, and now I have to do something about it. And it sucks. I've been through worse, so now it's time to get more reps.
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