Day 4

Today we played some tough games against two Brazilian teams. Although we lost each match I’ve noticed an improvement in our playing. It has taken a few days, but I think the jetlag is finally wearing off. The volleyball down here is amazing. The girls are really determined and push themselves to get touches on every ball. After we finished our games we gave the opposing teams Canadian volleyball t-shirts. They were really excited and thankful for the gifts.

Since coming down to Brazil I have realized that there is a lot more I can do to better my game. The girls here practice five times a week, and are very driven to see improvement. We met one girl today who was nineteen years old, and was playing on a professional team. You could tell just by looking at her that she takes the game very seriously. She was the most toned athlete I have ever seen. During her practice, when she wasn’t on the court she was on the side doing one arm push ups and crunches.

Although we have only been here three days we have accomplished a lot. We have started to overcome the language barrier with the other teams, and have befriended them. I think its exciting that we will be able to maintain contact with them through e-mails, and be able to follow each others career in volleyball. In these past three days we have also begun to bond as a team. It feels good to have eleven other girls around who I trust, and love to spend time with.

Although I miss everyone at home, I look forward to the days to come. I can’t wait until we begin the clinics for the underprivileged children. I also am excited for the trip to Rio de Janeiro. I love beach volleyball and think its great that were going to be able to add that into our trip.

By Tracey Martin