Whoever Hates Losing Raise Your Hand
If you did not raise your hand you're off the team. The "full loss" to Newport was disappointing but we didn't know any better. The loss to Brown was a miserable experience for all concerned. Why aren't we winning our matches? Are we good enough? Do we not understand the game as well as our opponent? Do we not hit the ball as hard? Do we not have the skill and athleticism necessary to win?
Just looking at those questions has started to piss me off! Our team is made up of some of the best athletes I have ever known. Every member of our team was a varsity athlete in college (I thing Coogs was on the synchro swimming team at PC). We know how to win; we beat every team last year to such an extent that it was boring by the end of the season. We train; we have clinics, we watch DVDs of the best matches in the World; we take lessons from a World class pro.
The reason we are not succeeding is in our head. We need to be confident when we step on court. We have to trust each of our individual games. For example, there is nothing more disconcerting to a left hander than deciding to play your first serve from the right hand box, even after he reminds you that he is left handed. (Screw him; he's playing my game). We need to approach every match like we did last year. We MUST walk into the courts a little taller, a little stronger, a lot more fit and a lot more confident than our opponent. Lift your chin and talk to the people around your opponent and not to him. As my college coach used to say, "You're not out there to make friends; you're out there to win. You can shake his hand when the match is over." Tell me if I'm wrong but, isn't it a great feeling to buy a beer for a guy right after you just kicked his ass? It feels like you just hit another nick!
The internal doubt must stop. Believe in yourself. Believe you will win when you start the match and commit to the belief.
Bye Week
This was a good week off for us. We were a little banged and bruised. We have numerous injuries and over used body parts that could use a little rest (Jenks). Coogy came back a little early even though he said he was going to stay out until the new year. That's either Irish conviction or the addictive properties of Squash rearing its ugly head.
Neener chose the right week to cosmetically enhance her appearance. Two weeks off from squash to take slow peacefull walks? Oh to be a Barrington housewife! I still don't understand why anyone would get calf defining implants.
Hadley made his first appearance for us this year. Great to have you out with us Hads! We all understand how hard it is to come back from not playing on a consistent basis. Don't get discouraged. The guy you played at #3 was as good as any #1 on any other team. Brown's line-up is a bit skewed.
Post Match
Ross Simon's seems to be the better pick. 1/2 price bar food and grilled pizza after 9:00 p.m. I'm actually going to talk to the people at TPG and let them know we want to patronize them but it's much more cost effective and fiscally responsible for us to eat at Ross Simon.
Stretching and Massaging
Should we get Athena to help us or not. I need to know.
Have a Merry Christmas.
Capt. Morgan
Friday, December 22, 2006
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Merry Christmas
If you have been good boys and girl squash players this year Captain Clause might leave you a little something in your locker.
Ho Ho Ho!
Capt. Morgan
Ho Ho Ho!
Capt. Morgan
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
VICTORY AT LAST
A Win Is A Win
And a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do. Just ask Nina or Coogan. More on that topic later.
Agawam is the first domino to fall. Now we have our first match win of the season under our belt.
Griff played the 1st match at the #5 position and won 3-0 over "High Shorts" Baroker. When the match started, it looked like it was going to be a blowout. Steve had many of his very writsty, flicky, well held shots working and HS had no answer. Then the courts started to get a little hot; the ball started staying up a little bit longer; Steve's fleece jacket seemed to be a little constrictive and HS was getting everything. Some of the points were pretty long and HS climbed back to 7-7 in the middle game. Griff felt no pressure. It was patently evident to anyone watching who was in command when, in the middle of a point, Griff paused to adjust his wristband, let the ball bounce past him and returned the shot without even a flinch.
Jenks played a tough one again at #1. Although very, very short, Jenk's opponent held the edge on experience (played in college - Williams I think). The guy moved very well and didn't make too many mistakes. Maybe a lob could have been implemented? Jenks could have been a little squashed out during his match. Prior to his match he made a trip to Beantown for a Quick on-court conference; used the ball machine for 1 hour on Sun; played a Boston match; had a clinic on Sat. and probably something else that I'm missing. Dude, you need to take a day off every once in a while and let your body catch up.
Nina's opponent defaulted. SCARED!
I played former politician and current President of Bryant University, Ron Machtly. Talk about experience, the guy has been around. Hell, he lived in Washington D.C. and escaped without a scandle or an allegation of any inappropriate communications with Pages. The guy had the shot making ability you see with hardballers. Luckily for me he ran out of gas and I was able to squeek out a 3-2 win. After missing, what seemed like 20 dropshots, I went back to the "just hitting another rail" approach so I could keep the rallies going longer. It worked.
Coogan was asked to reschedule. He and Wally will battle it out on Thurs. 12/14.
The Re-Match That Never Was
The chirping, the smack-talk, the goading, and the excuses were all to be stopped with the Coogy v. Nina rematch. After his big win over Nina (even in her condition) Coogs couldn't keep the posturing to a low roar. He was called out; the challenge was made and the court was booked. Coogy couldn't make it the first time so Nina re-booked the court for Sunday (the day after the Christmas party - tough one). From all accounts, Coogs couldn't answer the bell and voluntarily offered the default and the rung on the ladder. Coogy was thinking Neens would again show sportswomanship, would decline the default and only be happy with an on-court win and hold off moving the chips around until after a best of 5 was played. Wrong! "A girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do." So much for the 3 strikes rule. 2 lame excuses was enough for Nina.
Clincs
They seem to be going pretty well. Attendance is good and the time seems to be working for most.
Fitness
Work on increasing stamina. The heat factor on the RICC courts can be be a big advantage if you are used to the temperature and are just a bit more fit than your opponent. 3 sets of court sprints (12x) will really help in the 4th and 5th games.
Capt. Morgan
And a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do. Just ask Nina or Coogan. More on that topic later.
Agawam is the first domino to fall. Now we have our first match win of the season under our belt.
Griff played the 1st match at the #5 position and won 3-0 over "High Shorts" Baroker. When the match started, it looked like it was going to be a blowout. Steve had many of his very writsty, flicky, well held shots working and HS had no answer. Then the courts started to get a little hot; the ball started staying up a little bit longer; Steve's fleece jacket seemed to be a little constrictive and HS was getting everything. Some of the points were pretty long and HS climbed back to 7-7 in the middle game. Griff felt no pressure. It was patently evident to anyone watching who was in command when, in the middle of a point, Griff paused to adjust his wristband, let the ball bounce past him and returned the shot without even a flinch.
Jenks played a tough one again at #1. Although very, very short, Jenk's opponent held the edge on experience (played in college - Williams I think). The guy moved very well and didn't make too many mistakes. Maybe a lob could have been implemented? Jenks could have been a little squashed out during his match. Prior to his match he made a trip to Beantown for a Quick on-court conference; used the ball machine for 1 hour on Sun; played a Boston match; had a clinic on Sat. and probably something else that I'm missing. Dude, you need to take a day off every once in a while and let your body catch up.
Nina's opponent defaulted. SCARED!
I played former politician and current President of Bryant University, Ron Machtly. Talk about experience, the guy has been around. Hell, he lived in Washington D.C. and escaped without a scandle or an allegation of any inappropriate communications with Pages. The guy had the shot making ability you see with hardballers. Luckily for me he ran out of gas and I was able to squeek out a 3-2 win. After missing, what seemed like 20 dropshots, I went back to the "just hitting another rail" approach so I could keep the rallies going longer. It worked.
Coogan was asked to reschedule. He and Wally will battle it out on Thurs. 12/14.
The Re-Match That Never Was
The chirping, the smack-talk, the goading, and the excuses were all to be stopped with the Coogy v. Nina rematch. After his big win over Nina (even in her condition) Coogs couldn't keep the posturing to a low roar. He was called out; the challenge was made and the court was booked. Coogy couldn't make it the first time so Nina re-booked the court for Sunday (the day after the Christmas party - tough one). From all accounts, Coogs couldn't answer the bell and voluntarily offered the default and the rung on the ladder. Coogy was thinking Neens would again show sportswomanship, would decline the default and only be happy with an on-court win and hold off moving the chips around until after a best of 5 was played. Wrong! "A girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do." So much for the 3 strikes rule. 2 lame excuses was enough for Nina.
Clincs
They seem to be going pretty well. Attendance is good and the time seems to be working for most.
Fitness
Work on increasing stamina. The heat factor on the RICC courts can be be a big advantage if you are used to the temperature and are just a bit more fit than your opponent. 3 sets of court sprints (12x) will really help in the 4th and 5th games.
Capt. Morgan
Sunday, December 03, 2006
Progress
RICC v. Riverbend
We are making progress. Nina humbled yet another male ego 3-0. These guys just do not know what to think. Chaffee turned in a solid performance and came away with the win 3-1. Jenkins, like the fisherman he is, had the guy hooked but couldn't get him in the boat. The guy was a bit freaky looking with his one Popeye arm. His left forearm was literally twice the size of his right arm. I apologize. I put the dagger in but forget to twist. Again, I had 2 match balls and lost 2-3. It was a good match that lasted about 75 minutes. Coogan's match was U-G-L-Y. He looked like he had never played before. Swing harder Jay! See if you can put the ball through the front wall. Jay countered power with power and it didn't work - at all. Jay did seem to work the kinks out a bit at the clinic on Saturday.
CLINIC
Peter put this week's clinic together - thanks Pete. The general consensus is that we will continue with the clinics on Saturdays at 3:00 p.m. You will receive regular email reminders from Peter.
Andover CC vs. RICC
Andover brought a few players down today as well as a couple of juniors. It was all pretty fun; lunch was good and everyone seemed to have a good time except the long lost brother of RICC's Eric the Murderer - Jeff. Jeff, my opponent was, as his teammates termed him, anti-social. He looked like Eric but much taller. His facial expressions and manerisms were similarly odd. Between games he isolated himself either at the end of the bench facing the door or left the court area all together and sat on the step by the entrance. I won 3-0. Needless to say, he didn't stay for lunch. Probably out burying a body.
Nina, bruised another ego by thrashing Nick. Adding insult to injury, she had to stop her match because she rolled her ankle. Frightening and clearly painfull from my perspective. Nothing a fistfull fo IB couldn't handle. She steamrolled the guy 3-1. Parenthetically, Nina started her match after I was already off court and cleaned up. That didn't matter to Hugh. When he thought Nina could no longer play he asked me if I was going to finish the match. WHAT!?
TO blasted his way to a 3-0 route and was off the court in about 20 minutes.
Renee Reilly crushed her opponent 3-0. Totally outmatched.
Riley simply gave a lesson to the guy he played. Didn't cost the guy $50 either.
Dobron was outmatched. We had to throw Andover a bone for coming down and Al was nice enough to accomodate.
The juniors more than held their own. Andover only brought 2 even though every email indicated they were bringing 3. Lauren Davis crushed her opponent 3-0. Philip Rizzuto romped 3-0 and Frohman Anderson played the same young man and again won 3-0. It should be noted that young Philip Rizzuto showed fantastic sportsmanship during his match. He called a stroke on himself when he didn't have to, essentially extending the torture, but nevertheless doing the right thing. Good parenting shows!
RI OPEN
Please sign up for the RI Open. You can get the registration on-line at the RISRA website.
This Week's Tip from the Capt.
1. Make a conscious effort to move the ball to all 4 corners especially if you are more fit than your opponent.
2. Know where your opponent is on the court.
3. Remember the front wall is 15 ft high and the tin is 19". Hit the ball on the wall and you're in the point. If you hit the ball into the tin you've already lost the point. - Mike Riley
Capt. Morgan
We are making progress. Nina humbled yet another male ego 3-0. These guys just do not know what to think. Chaffee turned in a solid performance and came away with the win 3-1. Jenkins, like the fisherman he is, had the guy hooked but couldn't get him in the boat. The guy was a bit freaky looking with his one Popeye arm. His left forearm was literally twice the size of his right arm. I apologize. I put the dagger in but forget to twist. Again, I had 2 match balls and lost 2-3. It was a good match that lasted about 75 minutes. Coogan's match was U-G-L-Y. He looked like he had never played before. Swing harder Jay! See if you can put the ball through the front wall. Jay countered power with power and it didn't work - at all. Jay did seem to work the kinks out a bit at the clinic on Saturday.
CLINIC
Peter put this week's clinic together - thanks Pete. The general consensus is that we will continue with the clinics on Saturdays at 3:00 p.m. You will receive regular email reminders from Peter.
Andover CC vs. RICC
Andover brought a few players down today as well as a couple of juniors. It was all pretty fun; lunch was good and everyone seemed to have a good time except the long lost brother of RICC's Eric the Murderer - Jeff. Jeff, my opponent was, as his teammates termed him, anti-social. He looked like Eric but much taller. His facial expressions and manerisms were similarly odd. Between games he isolated himself either at the end of the bench facing the door or left the court area all together and sat on the step by the entrance. I won 3-0. Needless to say, he didn't stay for lunch. Probably out burying a body.
Nina, bruised another ego by thrashing Nick. Adding insult to injury, she had to stop her match because she rolled her ankle. Frightening and clearly painfull from my perspective. Nothing a fistfull fo IB couldn't handle. She steamrolled the guy 3-1. Parenthetically, Nina started her match after I was already off court and cleaned up. That didn't matter to Hugh. When he thought Nina could no longer play he asked me if I was going to finish the match. WHAT!?
TO blasted his way to a 3-0 route and was off the court in about 20 minutes.
Renee Reilly crushed her opponent 3-0. Totally outmatched.
Riley simply gave a lesson to the guy he played. Didn't cost the guy $50 either.
Dobron was outmatched. We had to throw Andover a bone for coming down and Al was nice enough to accomodate.
The juniors more than held their own. Andover only brought 2 even though every email indicated they were bringing 3. Lauren Davis crushed her opponent 3-0. Philip Rizzuto romped 3-0 and Frohman Anderson played the same young man and again won 3-0. It should be noted that young Philip Rizzuto showed fantastic sportsmanship during his match. He called a stroke on himself when he didn't have to, essentially extending the torture, but nevertheless doing the right thing. Good parenting shows!
RI OPEN
Please sign up for the RI Open. You can get the registration on-line at the RISRA website.
This Week's Tip from the Capt.
1. Make a conscious effort to move the ball to all 4 corners especially if you are more fit than your opponent.
2. Know where your opponent is on the court.
3. Remember the front wall is 15 ft high and the tin is 19". Hit the ball on the wall and you're in the point. If you hit the ball into the tin you've already lost the point. - Mike Riley
Capt. Morgan
Friday, November 24, 2006
A Week Off
There were no RISRA matches this week due to the Thanksgiving holiday. The break in league play gave everyone an opportunity to focus on fitness and conditioning. Old Tony told me he saw everyone on the squad doing court sprints and star drills after they played this week. Nice effort everyone!
Riverbend comes to RICC
This could be the first week we have all 5 matches in one night. I haven't heard from anyone about rescheduling so I'm assuming all will be at the courts at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday. I'm also assuming we will celebrate our first team win thereafter. Venue suggestions: Ross Simons, TPG?
The Beer
If you haven't already noticed, Jules has taken care of us - again. He dropped the price of the beer in the fridge by a $1 per can/bottle. Additionally, he acquired a keg and keg fridge which now houses Michelob Ultra. Drafts are $2.25. Please thank Jules for his extra effort when you see him.
Clinic Day and Time
Please suggest a time and day for our team clinic. The longer it goes without a fixed day and time the less likely Riley will be able to accomodate us. I like Sunday at 2:00. I need your input on this so we can all benefit from the clinics. Riley won't do the clinic unless we have a committed group.
Capt. Morgan
Riverbend comes to RICC
This could be the first week we have all 5 matches in one night. I haven't heard from anyone about rescheduling so I'm assuming all will be at the courts at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday. I'm also assuming we will celebrate our first team win thereafter. Venue suggestions: Ross Simons, TPG?
The Beer
If you haven't already noticed, Jules has taken care of us - again. He dropped the price of the beer in the fridge by a $1 per can/bottle. Additionally, he acquired a keg and keg fridge which now houses Michelob Ultra. Drafts are $2.25. Please thank Jules for his extra effort when you see him.
Clinic Day and Time
Please suggest a time and day for our team clinic. The longer it goes without a fixed day and time the less likely Riley will be able to accomodate us. I like Sunday at 2:00. I need your input on this so we can all benefit from the clinics. Riley won't do the clinic unless we have a committed group.
Capt. Morgan
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Week 2 - Newport - Frustration
The Matches
Jenks, Nina and I all made it down to the City by the Sea, albeit at different times, in different vehicles and even at different venues. Unfortunately, the result was the same for each of us. Jenks faced the formerly nationally ranked racquet ball star of New England who just decided to start playing squash. By all accounts, the guy hit the ball about 1000 mph and 1/100 of an inch over the tin . . . every time. That is not squash! The games were semi-close but 0-3 was the result. He played a bit early because he was moonlighting at The Saltwater Edge and got the ok from the boss to quit early.
Jenks met me in the parking lot at St. George's School after my match with the history teacher/admissions officer. The guy was not in squash shape; I should have won the match, was leading 6-2 in the 5th game, lost focus, didn't stick with the game plan and lost 7-9. STUPID ASS! It deserved a huge F-bomb but there were plenty of little darlings around so I utilized the skills acquired in Anger Management 101 and vented to Jenks on the way up to the US Open.
Nina's babysitter couldn't get to her house early enough to get a ride otherwise and, of course, Alex was in surgery, so she made the trip - ALL BY HERSELF. Good job Nina! Thank goodness the default rule was changed by RISRA earlier this year to punish DEFAULTS (All team members please see blog #1.) It would have been easier to take the long distance loss. Nina played better in week #2 than in #1 but went home 1-3.
Frustration persists. There's a difference between crushing every team we played last year and not knowing your opponent this year. Prediction - By the 2nd half of the year we should be on cruise control and racking up wins. For now, we need to focus on the upside and realize that with each match we play we gain confidence in our abilities. We know we can compete in B. These guys are really beatable as long as we show up.
#4 was defaulted. This cannot happen any more. One of the reasons we did so well last year was that we only had 2 or 3 defaults all year (Rizzuto 2x).
#5 is being rescheduled. Thank you Jay and welcome back from China.
B FITNESS
Some extra work will really make the difference on court. Please try to add in an extra 5-10 minutes of hard cardio at the end of your play. Court Sprints (12 x 3 with a 30 second break between), Ghosting (3 x 3 with a 30 second break between), Self-Boasting (boast, drop, short rail, rail, boast, get it, drop, etc.), Sit-ups and Push-ups are all good drills at the end of any court time that will increase your stamina and help keep your mind focused, especially in the late games.
S . . t . . r . . e . . t . . c . . h - Stretching will reduce injuries and increase your recovery rate after a workout. Stretch after your workout. Focus on hamstrings, quads and calves (I love veal). Also, if something hurts put ice on it immediately. Freeze some water in a dixie cup with a popcicle stick in it and rub the area until numb. Athena the physical therapist used it on me and I'll swear to its attributes.
ATHENA THE PHYSICAL THERAPIST
We have an opportunity to have Athena come and stretch us out at our matches if we want to try it out. The first one is free. If we like it she can make it a regular thing. If it doesn't catch on we can drop the idea at any point. Please let me know who is interested. I think it will be great to try anyway.
THE B1 SAGA
Player B gave me a call and, as expected, told me he decided he was going to play for the other team. Good luck and have a great year. Enough said.
THE US OPEN
After our matches, Jenks and I met up with RISRA Pres., Ken Wise and made our way to the Back Bay Events Center in Boston, MA for the Quarter Finals of the 2006 US Open Squash Championship.
We saw 4 great matches: Lincou v. Gaultier, Palmer v. Shabana, Ashour v. Ryding and Matthew v. Beechill. The shots were tight to the wall, there were virtually no miss hits and the boast out of the back was seen, maybe, 1 time in 4 matches. The drop shots were out of this world. The 19 year old, Ashour, was dropping from the parking lot and the veteran, Graham Ryding, was smoked in under 35 minutes.
The food, beverages and equipment were pretty good. The collection of RICC members was significant. Gemma, Jenkins, Capt. M., TO, Nathan, Auber,Ted and Player B were all in attendance.
Remember: 1. Another rail is not that bad of a shot; 2. Know where your opponent is.
See you Tuesday.
Capt. Morgan
Jenks, Nina and I all made it down to the City by the Sea, albeit at different times, in different vehicles and even at different venues. Unfortunately, the result was the same for each of us. Jenks faced the formerly nationally ranked racquet ball star of New England who just decided to start playing squash. By all accounts, the guy hit the ball about 1000 mph and 1/100 of an inch over the tin . . . every time. That is not squash! The games were semi-close but 0-3 was the result. He played a bit early because he was moonlighting at The Saltwater Edge and got the ok from the boss to quit early.
Jenks met me in the parking lot at St. George's School after my match with the history teacher/admissions officer. The guy was not in squash shape; I should have won the match, was leading 6-2 in the 5th game, lost focus, didn't stick with the game plan and lost 7-9. STUPID ASS! It deserved a huge F-bomb but there were plenty of little darlings around so I utilized the skills acquired in Anger Management 101 and vented to Jenks on the way up to the US Open.
Nina's babysitter couldn't get to her house early enough to get a ride otherwise and, of course, Alex was in surgery, so she made the trip - ALL BY HERSELF. Good job Nina! Thank goodness the default rule was changed by RISRA earlier this year to punish DEFAULTS (All team members please see blog #1.) It would have been easier to take the long distance loss. Nina played better in week #2 than in #1 but went home 1-3.
Frustration persists. There's a difference between crushing every team we played last year and not knowing your opponent this year. Prediction - By the 2nd half of the year we should be on cruise control and racking up wins. For now, we need to focus on the upside and realize that with each match we play we gain confidence in our abilities. We know we can compete in B. These guys are really beatable as long as we show up.
#4 was defaulted. This cannot happen any more. One of the reasons we did so well last year was that we only had 2 or 3 defaults all year (Rizzuto 2x).
#5 is being rescheduled. Thank you Jay and welcome back from China.
B FITNESS
Some extra work will really make the difference on court. Please try to add in an extra 5-10 minutes of hard cardio at the end of your play. Court Sprints (12 x 3 with a 30 second break between), Ghosting (3 x 3 with a 30 second break between), Self-Boasting (boast, drop, short rail, rail, boast, get it, drop, etc.), Sit-ups and Push-ups are all good drills at the end of any court time that will increase your stamina and help keep your mind focused, especially in the late games.
S . . t . . r . . e . . t . . c . . h - Stretching will reduce injuries and increase your recovery rate after a workout. Stretch after your workout. Focus on hamstrings, quads and calves (I love veal). Also, if something hurts put ice on it immediately. Freeze some water in a dixie cup with a popcicle stick in it and rub the area until numb. Athena the physical therapist used it on me and I'll swear to its attributes.
ATHENA THE PHYSICAL THERAPIST
We have an opportunity to have Athena come and stretch us out at our matches if we want to try it out. The first one is free. If we like it she can make it a regular thing. If it doesn't catch on we can drop the idea at any point. Please let me know who is interested. I think it will be great to try anyway.
THE B1 SAGA
Player B gave me a call and, as expected, told me he decided he was going to play for the other team. Good luck and have a great year. Enough said.
THE US OPEN
After our matches, Jenks and I met up with RISRA Pres., Ken Wise and made our way to the Back Bay Events Center in Boston, MA for the Quarter Finals of the 2006 US Open Squash Championship.
We saw 4 great matches: Lincou v. Gaultier, Palmer v. Shabana, Ashour v. Ryding and Matthew v. Beechill. The shots were tight to the wall, there were virtually no miss hits and the boast out of the back was seen, maybe, 1 time in 4 matches. The drop shots were out of this world. The 19 year old, Ashour, was dropping from the parking lot and the veteran, Graham Ryding, was smoked in under 35 minutes.
The food, beverages and equipment were pretty good. The collection of RICC members was significant. Gemma, Jenkins, Capt. M., TO, Nathan, Auber,Ted and Player B were all in attendance.
Remember: 1. Another rail is not that bad of a shot; 2. Know where your opponent is.
See you Tuesday.
Capt. Morgan
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Week 1 - A Slow Start, Too Much Confusion And Outcome Potential
All the Crap Leading Up to the Match
These past couple of days have been a bit of a roller coaster. Figuring out the participants, re-working the ladder, setting the line-up, re-scheduling matches, email, phone calls and playing matches have me frustrated to the point of throwing in the towel. However, I'm somewhat accustomed to these situations. If you've known me for more than 2-3 weeks it is apparent that I have a problem avoiding slights, injustices and things I consider patently wrong. I recognize I'm a magnet for the trivial. Some things just get under my skin. I'm a crap magnet. Like the kid in school who is always in the wrong place at the wrong time, I seem to be the point man on issues that have "no real good outcome potential."
This week's situation with "no real good outcome potential" actually started FANTASTIC for all concerned. (Right there I should have recognized the situation could not get any better than it was and should have either aborted or delegated. Note to self - Delegate more) "All" being those on our squad and another player interested in playing who has a skill level we could utilize at the top of our team ladder. I'll call this person "Player B." The fantastic part was that last week it was brought to my attention that Player B was interested in playing squash this season. I contacted Player B via email and a phone call to invite him onto the squad. Fortunately, I also ran into Player B. It all seemed so fortuitous. It was during this conversation that Player B agreed to play for us. We discussed the two team situation, the different team players, the lack of parity between the teams and our need for a #1 player. Pshyched Right? Not for long. The chip gets placed on the other ladder and the emails start the disassociative process.
As can be expected, I as the crap magnet take a stand against this intolerable injustice, plant my recalcitrant foot firmly upon the ground, cross my arms and clearly but tactfully (this is new for the crap magnet) without venom or histrionics state my position. Along with the sprinkling of tact, the crap magnet also concluded, earlier rather than later, the situation has a "no real good outcome potential." So, I have left it up to Player B to decide where he wants to play. The realization is that as long as we, as a team, can enjoy ourselves during the season. It doesn't really matter. If I get a response from Player B I'll let you know his decision; if I don't get a response I'm not worrrying about it and neither should you. Our team with him or without him will have a great time this year.
The Match (So Far)
The FR 3, 4, and 5 come to our house Tues night. We re-schedule 1 & 2. We get 1 win(so far) at #4. It was a bit of a blow-out, 3-0, and it ended pretty quickly. No fireworks, no problems, no rage or anger management issues. Kind of dull.
Nina played at #3 and wasn't on her game. She took the loss, 1-3, in a manner and fashion you can expect from Neens. She was pissed and it showed. Nobody likes losing, especially on our team, which is a good thing, but Nina R-E-A-L-L-Y hates to lose. Nothing broke, nothing was thrown and it appeared the dissatisfaction was channeled internally. If she plays Peter the Bearded Dwarf again later in the year, he'll be in a Sub-Terrainian World of hurt.
Speaking of hurt, Mark was lucky he was on court with an ER Doc. From my vantage point the collapse at the front of the court looked "scary bad." Fortunately, he only rolled his ankle. He took a breather, walked it off and finished the match. There were plenty of guts in the 1-3 loss and I suspect there's been plenty of ice on the ankle and fistfulls of anti-inflamatories since.
Player B is scheduled to play #1. We'll see how that whole thing turns out. And, I'm sure Jenks will get his match in as soon as he gets back from Vegas and the 1 armed bandits.
As always, comments appreciated.
Capt. Morgan (Crap Magnet)
These past couple of days have been a bit of a roller coaster. Figuring out the participants, re-working the ladder, setting the line-up, re-scheduling matches, email, phone calls and playing matches have me frustrated to the point of throwing in the towel. However, I'm somewhat accustomed to these situations. If you've known me for more than 2-3 weeks it is apparent that I have a problem avoiding slights, injustices and things I consider patently wrong. I recognize I'm a magnet for the trivial. Some things just get under my skin. I'm a crap magnet. Like the kid in school who is always in the wrong place at the wrong time, I seem to be the point man on issues that have "no real good outcome potential."
This week's situation with "no real good outcome potential" actually started FANTASTIC for all concerned. (Right there I should have recognized the situation could not get any better than it was and should have either aborted or delegated. Note to self - Delegate more) "All" being those on our squad and another player interested in playing who has a skill level we could utilize at the top of our team ladder. I'll call this person "Player B." The fantastic part was that last week it was brought to my attention that Player B was interested in playing squash this season. I contacted Player B via email and a phone call to invite him onto the squad. Fortunately, I also ran into Player B. It all seemed so fortuitous. It was during this conversation that Player B agreed to play for us. We discussed the two team situation, the different team players, the lack of parity between the teams and our need for a #1 player. Pshyched Right? Not for long. The chip gets placed on the other ladder and the emails start the disassociative process.
As can be expected, I as the crap magnet take a stand against this intolerable injustice, plant my recalcitrant foot firmly upon the ground, cross my arms and clearly but tactfully (this is new for the crap magnet) without venom or histrionics state my position. Along with the sprinkling of tact, the crap magnet also concluded, earlier rather than later, the situation has a "no real good outcome potential." So, I have left it up to Player B to decide where he wants to play. The realization is that as long as we, as a team, can enjoy ourselves during the season. It doesn't really matter. If I get a response from Player B I'll let you know his decision; if I don't get a response I'm not worrrying about it and neither should you. Our team with him or without him will have a great time this year.
The Match (So Far)
The FR 3, 4, and 5 come to our house Tues night. We re-schedule 1 & 2. We get 1 win(so far) at #4. It was a bit of a blow-out, 3-0, and it ended pretty quickly. No fireworks, no problems, no rage or anger management issues. Kind of dull.
Nina played at #3 and wasn't on her game. She took the loss, 1-3, in a manner and fashion you can expect from Neens. She was pissed and it showed. Nobody likes losing, especially on our team, which is a good thing, but Nina R-E-A-L-L-Y hates to lose. Nothing broke, nothing was thrown and it appeared the dissatisfaction was channeled internally. If she plays Peter the Bearded Dwarf again later in the year, he'll be in a Sub-Terrainian World of hurt.
Speaking of hurt, Mark was lucky he was on court with an ER Doc. From my vantage point the collapse at the front of the court looked "scary bad." Fortunately, he only rolled his ankle. He took a breather, walked it off and finished the match. There were plenty of guts in the 1-3 loss and I suspect there's been plenty of ice on the ankle and fistfulls of anti-inflamatories since.
Player B is scheduled to play #1. We'll see how that whole thing turns out. And, I'm sure Jenks will get his match in as soon as he gets back from Vegas and the 1 armed bandits.
As always, comments appreciated.
Capt. Morgan (Crap Magnet)
Monday, November 06, 2006
1, 2, 3, 4, - Hey! Who took all my balls?
The Prince balls do not play like the Dunlop balls and should not be used in match play.
Friday, November 03, 2006
Squash Kickoff Party
The event was pretty well attended. As expected, a get together to discuss squash with a free beer kicker was all that was needed to get a decent turn-out. I was hoping for a few more of the B-Red group to show but it's understandable how travel, family and no clean clothes can get in the way. All the regulars were in attendance: Riley- #50 himself, Gemma, Davis, Dessel, Patrick, Grossman, Wall, Nina, Malone, Nathan, Tim-O, Renee, Depack, Monti and Grampa Hugh et al. There were also some newbies, guys just starting the addiction process - Boland and Goldberg.
A look at the court schedule for this weekend shows plenty of activity for young and old alike. It's great to see everybody gearing up for the season. It all starts Tues for the B's. Just keep in mind, it's a marathon and not a sprint. It's not where you start but where you finish. And, just like in a match, consistency, patience and fitness are the keys to success.
Train hard and the matches will seem easy.
Capt. Morgan
A look at the court schedule for this weekend shows plenty of activity for young and old alike. It's great to see everybody gearing up for the season. It all starts Tues for the B's. Just keep in mind, it's a marathon and not a sprint. It's not where you start but where you finish. And, just like in a match, consistency, patience and fitness are the keys to success.
Train hard and the matches will seem easy.
Capt. Morgan
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Scheduling Matches
Week 1 is quickly approaching. We need some commitment on players. As of Today we have Nina, Chaffee, I think Jenks (no response from last email) and the Capt. Griff is away for 2 weeks as is Coogs, so rescheduling will not help us there. Defaulting is not an option. There is a new RISRA rule that says if you Default a match your team loses a point. Therefore, it's better to bring up someone just to have a warm body out there and get 0 points in the match rather than the subtraction of points. I'll check to see if Turner is available.
This is not the way we want to start the season. For those of you who travel for work, please "decline" all trips, seminars, conferences, sales calls, trade-shows and the like which will require you to miss any and all Tuesdays through April. I'm sure the boss will not be offended. If you already know your schedule let me know so I can work around it.
SQUASH GATHERING/ Riley's 50th - Thurs. 11/2
Hope to see you all there. I understand the Amstel Light will be free. However, and this might be mind blowing, there is a group of people involved with the "Temperence Society." No booze has ever crossed their lips. Although I don't think I've ever met one of these people and I'm sure there are no squash players as members, it stands to reason that if these people can do it so can we. Remember, "[t]here's a burger in every beer." - Gen. G. Patton
Capt. Morgan
This is not the way we want to start the season. For those of you who travel for work, please "decline" all trips, seminars, conferences, sales calls, trade-shows and the like which will require you to miss any and all Tuesdays through April. I'm sure the boss will not be offended. If you already know your schedule let me know so I can work around it.
SQUASH GATHERING/ Riley's 50th - Thurs. 11/2
Hope to see you all there. I understand the Amstel Light will be free. However, and this might be mind blowing, there is a group of people involved with the "Temperence Society." No booze has ever crossed their lips. Although I don't think I've ever met one of these people and I'm sure there are no squash players as members, it stands to reason that if these people can do it so can we. Remember, "[t]here's a burger in every beer." - Gen. G. Patton
Capt. Morgan
Friday, October 27, 2006
Competition
A review of the other teams in our league revealed one very positive thing: The Fall River team that crushed everyone last year has moved up to the A-league. Apparently they acquired another good player which will allow them to be competitive. That's good for us.
In order for us to hold our own we need to start gearing up for the season. I've noticed that Riley has sent out a couple of notices for clinics which have received a less than enthusiastic response. So, looking forward, we should establish a regular clinic day and time. My suggestion is Sunday around 12:00 or 1:00. There are already other clinics scheduled prior thereto.
Conditioning:
We need to work on conditioning. As former "C" players we have an idea of how fit we need to be to compete at that level. By playing other "B" players and watching "B" matches, I've come to realize that, in general, fitness and conditioning will play a greater role in the matches. Stamina levels need to be increased due to the increased length of the points played. There will be fewer opportunities to cut off a loose ball to end the point.
The use of a timing device during drills is very helpful. For example, rather than just acting as the driver in the "Boast/Drive" drill until you feel you've had enough, set the timer and only switch when the time is up. Increase your time to increase your fitness.
SQUASH KICK OFF PARTY/50th Birthday
I hope to see everyone next Thurs. in the Newth Room.
Capt. Morgan
In order for us to hold our own we need to start gearing up for the season. I've noticed that Riley has sent out a couple of notices for clinics which have received a less than enthusiastic response. So, looking forward, we should establish a regular clinic day and time. My suggestion is Sunday around 12:00 or 1:00. There are already other clinics scheduled prior thereto.
Conditioning:
We need to work on conditioning. As former "C" players we have an idea of how fit we need to be to compete at that level. By playing other "B" players and watching "B" matches, I've come to realize that, in general, fitness and conditioning will play a greater role in the matches. Stamina levels need to be increased due to the increased length of the points played. There will be fewer opportunities to cut off a loose ball to end the point.
The use of a timing device during drills is very helpful. For example, rather than just acting as the driver in the "Boast/Drive" drill until you feel you've had enough, set the timer and only switch when the time is up. Increase your time to increase your fitness.
SQUASH KICK OFF PARTY/50th Birthday
I hope to see everyone next Thurs. in the Newth Room.
Capt. Morgan
Monday, October 23, 2006
Addition to the TEAM
This Week in Squash - RICC
Addition to the TEAM
I neglected to include our "Player to Be Named Later." Our B-Team (CC Red) will take the #6 player from the A-Team, whoever that may be. Presently the A-Team consists of Riley, Gemma, Davis, Salem, A-Rob and this year's new addition, Parker. However, Parker is nursing a hammy so presently there are no extras. With a legit #1 we could be pretty competitive.
Capt. Morgan
Addition to the TEAM
I neglected to include our "Player to Be Named Later." Our B-Team (CC Red) will take the #6 player from the A-Team, whoever that may be. Presently the A-Team consists of Riley, Gemma, Davis, Salem, A-Rob and this year's new addition, Parker. However, Parker is nursing a hammy so presently there are no extras. With a legit #1 we could be pretty competitive.
Capt. Morgan
Pre-Season Welcome
Hey Everybody.
Since the golf course is officially closed and the restoration project is in full swing, I figured it was time to get the TWIS going again.
I want to officially welcome everybody back to squash season with the new and improved TWIS. Each week I'll be sending a link to the blog so you can click on and hopefully enjoy. The blog format allows for comments, pictures and outsiders to become associated with our weekly squash fun.
As we all know, pre-season is very important. A good pre-season can take the team a long way through a long, grueling season. Remember, try a salad and water instead of a burger and beer? Well, it worked for us. I understand that some of the team has taken it upon themselves to work on fitness and weight loss in an effort to sharpen up for the up-coming season. For example, there has been a concerted effort on the physical therapy front to ready the weary bones and there is the purging/detoxifying others are using to drop a couple of lbs. summer created. That's the effort I love to see.
THE TEAM
We will consist of basically the same core group, sans Joe D, but at a higher, more competitive level. As the State Champions in the C Division last year, the jump to B is not a stretch for us. It won't be easy but we won't get slaughtered either.
We will also be adding a few new players to our roster. So, the official group shall consist of:
Jenks, Neener, Mark C., J. Coogey, Griff, Turner (after soccer season) and Captain Morgan himself.
LEAGUE NIGHT
Tuesday is our night and the schedule is posted. We start the second week in November. Check out the schedule at www.risra.org
Well, that's about it for the intro to this year's TWIS. I'm excited to start the TWIS program and hope you enjoy it as well. Keep an eye out for some cool new additions to TWIS.
Capt. Morgan
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