October 4, 2010
After a long night Sunday at the opening ceremonies, Coach D’Abreo made arguably his best move in his time as National Coach, a schedule change for a sleep-in and a late breakfast, just what the boys were looking for! A long rest was needed for most of us and it was well appreciated when we rendezvoused for breakfast at 10 am. After a good meal and a few coffees, the team broke up to pass time until our next event, some members electing to shoot some pool, others taking in the Games’ first events on TV, and some just scouring the internet trying to find pictures of themselves at Opening. At 12:30, we met up again for a team bonding session that was orchestrated by one of the CWG Canada mission staff members. This saw us brake into 4 teams of 4 and tour throughout the village trying to gather facts and info about the Games (like our version of City Chase). I can’t remember who won but it was a good time and was a fun way to spend an hour or so.
After heading out on the track for a 20 minute jog and stretch to flush the legs out, we were back in the dining hall for lunch before a team meeting where we outlined what we were looking for from ourselves in this tournament and prepped a bit for our first match tomorrow vs. South Africa. It should be a fun match, they’re a tough, fast team who’s been playing well. However, after our last encounter we feel we have something to prove and we really want to take 3 points and put ourselves in a position for a run to the Semis.
Today was the opening of the Hockey on the women’s side, and about 10 of us gathered to watch and cheer on our women against the Malaysians. Despite our yelling at the TV and a strong push from the girls late in the game, unfortunately they went down, frustrating of course, but I’m sure they’ll bounce back and put together a good performance next time out. It’s good to watch some hockey, gets us in the mood to get our tournament started tomorrow.
Tonight has been mostly a chill-out night, after dinner guys have just been relaxing, back in the residence center utilizing the pool, air hockey and foosball tables, generally keeping it low key before the big opener tomorrow afternoon.
By: Scott Tupper (Men’s National Team)