It is always amazing to watch how quickly the season goes by. My freshman year the seniors told me to enjoy the ride because it would be over before I knew it. This couldn't be more true. I remember our training trip to Florida in January like it was yesterday. Now the weather is heating up, school is almost over, and our squad is into postseason play, starting with the Big Ten Tournament this weekend. We go in as the number two seed, behind the Ohio State Buckeyes, and are aiming to win the title, a feat well within our capabilities.
Last week, we began what has become our postseason "tradition" at Illinois. In 2007, a banged up Fighting Illini team decided to work even harder the last few weeks of the year. Choosing to be over-prepared, the team added 7 a.m. hits to their already rigorous practice schedule, and took on brutal conditions sessions. Such hard work and dedication brought the team together. They rose to the occasion, defeating the Buckeyes in the quarterfinals and advancing to the finals of the NCAA Men's Tennis Championships. Their effort embodies our greatest desire: the opportunity to play for a national championship. At this time of year, most teams begin to taper their workouts hoping to rest up for the challenges ahead. We will continue to work hard, knowing that our strong legs and mental toughness will serve us well. Hopefully, this gives us the edge that we need to achieve our goals.
Over the weekend we traveled to the state of Michigan to take on the Wolverines and the Michigan State Spartans. We took a rough loss on Saturday, one that was very displeasing to our team and coaching staff. However, it could turn out to be a blessing. We were jolted and pushed to play extremely well the next day against Michigan State. I think now our team completely understands just how much we need to focus. We are ready for the Big Ten Tournament and couldn't be more excited. Hopefully, when I write again, I will be a Big Ten champion.
Last week, we began what has become our postseason "tradition" at Illinois. In 2007, a banged up Fighting Illini team decided to work even harder the last few weeks of the year. Choosing to be over-prepared, the team added 7 a.m. hits to their already rigorous practice schedule, and took on brutal conditions sessions. Such hard work and dedication brought the team together. They rose to the occasion, defeating the Buckeyes in the quarterfinals and advancing to the finals of the NCAA Men's Tennis Championships. Their effort embodies our greatest desire: the opportunity to play for a national championship. At this time of year, most teams begin to taper their workouts hoping to rest up for the challenges ahead. We will continue to work hard, knowing that our strong legs and mental toughness will serve us well. Hopefully, this gives us the edge that we need to achieve our goals.
Over the weekend we traveled to the state of Michigan to take on the Wolverines and the Michigan State Spartans. We took a rough loss on Saturday, one that was very displeasing to our team and coaching staff. However, it could turn out to be a blessing. We were jolted and pushed to play extremely well the next day against Michigan State. I think now our team completely understands just how much we need to focus. We are ready for the Big Ten Tournament and couldn't be more excited. Hopefully, when I write again, I will be a Big Ten champion.
Until next time,
Abe
Abe,
Congrats on breaking thru to the top 6. I have been following your career closely. We saw Nick last weekend and were fortunate enough to see an Army-Navy match.
Best of luck both in school and tennis. Please tell your parents hello.
GO ILLINI!!
Dave Williams
(Nick Birger's step dad)