Everyone-

 

I hope everyone made it home safely...I'm having a hard time sleeping (has nothing to do with the Triple quarter-pounder I had at 10:00) so I thought I send a note out to all of you.

 

The 6+ hour ride home allowed me to reflect on the weekend ride we had.  And Oh what a ride it was!!!!  We came oh sooo close...

 

First, for those who couldn't make the trip, our thoughts were and continue to be with you and know if you could have, you would have been there.  We know you were thinking of us.  We missed ya!!

 

And to my new ass't coach Michael (who will be giving up his brief coaching career to lace 'em back up as soon as the cast comes off) thank you for your help and support on the bench.  It meant everything to your teammates having you there....My heart went out watching you agonize being a spectator knowing how much you wanted to play.  And I can't tell you how much joy you brought me when you said "if we win and go to regionals maybe they can saw off the top of the cast!!!"

 

And thanks to Lisa Doug and Dean for all your work and support with the whole weekend...The arrangements were great and I couldn't ask for better guys on the bench.... Thank you...

 

Now for you players....I can't find the correct words to express how proud we are of each of you in how you played and conducted yourselves.  So many people told me what a class act we are.... Though we didn't bring the banner home, all of you played your hearts out all weekend never ever giving up!!! You have earned the right to be disappointed, but when the disappointment goes away (which hopefully it has already) you should take great pride in the accomplishment you achieved as a team this weekend.... Everyone stepped up his game to a huge level and we coaches and parents couldn't be more proud of you all.  You need to be equally proud of yourselves.  I know sometimes its harder to come in 2nd then in last, but guys coming in 2nd in the States is something to be proud of.  The drive and determination you displayed will carry you through life's big games. And we WILL have more opportunities in the coming years to close one or more of these out...Trust me we will....

 

And finally to you parents.... thank you entrusting me with your kids and giving me the opportunity to coach this great game to them... It is a privilege I do not take lightly and one that I cherish and take great pride in..being around all of them, watching grow and learn is a source of energy for me.... When people ask why I volunteer so many hours to this, I  point to their faces and the weekend ride they gave us and say why wouldn't I!!!!!....So, again thank you for allowing me to be part of their lives !!!!

 

Coach Kevin